This was an impressive romantic wuxia. Yang Yang and Zhao Lu Si had chemistry onscreen. It's undeniable that they had fun shooting this series. Since I didn't let bad press influence my decision to watch, I thoroughly enjoyed it in the way it was intended. As much as I appreciated the storyline, there was a slight disconnect with how the 4 main characters failed to show that they knew each other since childhood. It was also noticeable how many changes the script underwent. I have watched it many times now that I see the errors in the directorship. It was well cast and the acting was superb overall. No one was overt or exaggerated in their actions. The action sequences were impressive. I loved it when FL properly used the ax kick to deter the bully. I enjoyed the comedic rapport both main leads had with each other. This is a story where both main leads fell in love with each other slowly and supported each other in times of pain and sorrow. I love the differences in the dynamics of family in the 5 royal families. For Xi Yun, PmXie Yue and Lord of Qingzhou, they were extremely close and tight knit. For Lan Xi, Ju, Chang, Madame Bai Li and Lord of Yongzhou, it was full of intrigue, in fighting, sabotage, distrust, plotting and jealousy. Lan Xi and his half brother Chang were evidently close. I loved how the birds of prey were used at crucial points in the series. Yang Yang's acting prowess was seen when his facial expressions were sublime and not overt because it fit the character. In the scenes where his emotions, sorrow and suffering needed to be expressive, it was. I hope he gets nominated and wins an award. Yang Yang deserves it. I felt his absence when Bai Feng Xi was going thru her emotional challenges. When Feng Lan Xi went thru his emotional and physical challenges, Bai Feng Xi was seen supporting him. I think there appeared to be a rewrite at this juncture. I believe the director had problems with a few scenes because it was evident who dropped the ball. Overall, it was exceptional because the actors made it believable. The fight sequences were impressive.