I didnt watch this back in 2005, because the plot looks wacky and non-serious... but I regret it now.

Story/Cast/Characters
Absolutely well-written. Fight scenes are actually decent, not the HK-type level, but its still pretty well-coordinated. Characters are a little over-the-top but that's okay, it actually made the show more watchable and fun. Story pacing is pretty decent. Character developments were well-arranged and executed.

Now to the characters...
I may be watching this for Esther, but I much prefer Joanne's character (Xiao Kui) the most, and also relate to the most. I cried to her scenes multiple times. Understanding her pain really killed me a little inside and had to take a break on multiple occasions. I was initially kinda annoyed by her lack of airtime during the first half as all the focus was on the love triangle between the 2 dudes and You Li. But the 2nd half made up for it with another love triangle, this time the focus on Xiao Kui (yay)

Feeling kinda bad for Zax's role as he was the literal punching bag for 75% of the show's airing. His character fit his rather wild, impulsive personality. But his character development throughout the series was very enjoyable, seeing his character grow is such a joy.

Tony Sun's role is probably my least favourite character, despite the character developments he had after losing all of his wealth, status and family. But his character being the most rational strikes a good balance between him and Ying Qi.

As for You Li, she's cute, but she has her own flaws. I didnt really like her character until ep 24 (the 45min/ep version), when she found out that her own father was a cause of this whole shithousery. Her burden as a indirect murderer's daughter really moved me. The scene where you apologising on behalf of her father destroyed entirely me inside.

I also want to give a shoutout to the senior actors and scriptwriters as well. they integrated the seniors so well, making them create an amazing history that cause repercussions to the present.

Maybe my underestimation of the show's value made me enjoy the show even more, but even with that, the story's quality is really top-notch, the plot twists and turns caused by the villians were really out of control and unpredictable. Its been awhile since I got this feeling from watching a drama. This show also balanced the combat and romance really well, nothing is overshadowing the other. Not entirely satisfied with the ending but its still a happy ending regardless.

Music:
Damn, those 5566 songs really slap even till this day. Loved the OP, loved the inserts, even the English covers. The BGM transitions are smooth, most of the time at least, but there are some patchy transitions.

Rewatch Value:
I dont have the drive to rewatch this, compared to Green Forest, My Home. But people who loved the articulating story and emotional ride that it had, will probably rewatch it. I might rewatch this in the future, probably in over a decade time???

Do I recommend? Yes definitely, especially judging from this page, it looks like no one has watched this show. Give this show a shot.