If you like a story with intrigue political and also wuxia genre, this is the right one you looking for. First i don't put so much expectation but i fell in love in very first episode. This is so rare to find the relationship between master & his 'subordinate' as one of highlight of the story. Most of drama would tell about friendship with same age but this friendship between Xu Fengnian and Lao Huang even successfully make me burst into tears. (P.S another drama which have this relationship is Joy of Life).
Second, the romance between ML and FL is so adorable without showing romantic scene whole time.
Third, the best thing...relationship between Son and Father. I think this is the biggest surprise hahaha.
Overall i love the plot, Xu Fengnian is hiding his cleverness and also his real character as a wise man but sometime i just think that Xu Fengnian really has a great luck by having powerful guards by his side. Xu Fengnian, how lucky you are!
Casting, perfect! Zhang Ruo Yun is right person to portray future king with his cunning character and but generous to other people. Another one who impress me is Finn Han, the little boy portray an leader of Sect Zhao Xuan Su. Damn how can a little boy can imitate an old man expression and have a good body language. He's going to be a bright star certainly.
Totally casting i found it kinda funny that it almost looks like Joy of Life in lite version, i mean if you have watched Joy of Life you will find some familiar faces in here too.
Another Great thing, LOCATION and CGI. sorry i have to capslock this. I really mean it. Since it's about someone's journey, there are many location that awe me especially the weeds field. CGI, is very well done! I'm pretty much sure it costs high budget to produce such a high quality of FX.

One word. Go watch it! Highly recommended.