The Rise of Phoenixes

Chen Kun plays Ning Yi, a prince on the rise with a sharp mind and a guarded heart, while Ni Ni portrays Feng Zhiwei, a celebrated warrior who has sworn loyalty to the throne yet carries a hidden lineage. When a long buried truth surfaces, Feng Zhiwei is forced to weigh her vendetta against her duty to Ning Yi as the realm trembles under scheming nobles and shifting loyalties. The story follows their uneasy collaboration as both must reckon with trust, ambition, and the price of power. No spoilers here, but the tension comes from what people are willing to sacrifice to secure a throne and maintain balance in a crown rich world.

This 2018 Chinese drama stars Chen Kun as Ning Yi and Ni Ni as Feng Zhiwei, delivering a grand period setting with a large ensemble that amplifies its political intrigue and personal confidences.

Critics noted the show for its dense political plotting and strong performances from its leads, with Ning Yi and Feng Zhiwei embodying a wary alliance shaped by duty and desire. Core themes include loyalty, revenge, and the human cost of power.

The series helped cement a trend of grand palace dramas in Chinese television, praised for its visual scale and intricate politics. It sparked online discussion about leadership and moral compromise, leaving a mark on fans of the genre.