Li Pei Rong --- Ye Jing
He is a trusted military general brought by Ding Bao Zhen from Guizhou. Despite his rebellious nature, he is fiercely loyal to Ding Bao Zhen and possesses remarkable bravery, combat skills, chivalry, and a strong sense of justice. His straightforward personality makes him averse to political schemes, and he tends to form judgments quickly. Once he recognizes someone's worth, he treats them like a brother, defending and supporting them at every turn, sometimes appearing reckless and biased. He always uses his martial skills to protect Ding Bao Zhen and ultimately sacrifices himself in an assassination attempt to safeguard Ding Bao Zhen's life.
Zhong Fu Ren --- Liu Zhi Han
As the second wife of Ding Bao Zhen, she is understanding, virtuous, and of good character. Due to the illness that confined Mrs. Shen to her bed, she, being Mrs. Shen's cousin, lived in the Ding household, helping with household chores and taking care of her sister. She respected her sister, took meticulous care of Ding Bao Zhen, and treated Ding Bao Zhen's children as her own. Before Mrs. Shen's illness worsened and she passed away, she took the initiative to become Ding Bao Zhen's second wife.
Ding Bao Zhen --- Ma Shao Hua
A renowned statesman in the late Qing Dynasty, he possessed a straightforward disposition, emphasized self-cultivation, exuded firmness and authority, and had a reputation for integrity. He was resolute and decisive, harboring a deep-seated hatred for evil while treating the people with utmost care, akin to a loving parent. He would often dress in plain clothes and visit the fields to understand the livelihoods of the common people. He had a particular fondness for fine cuisine, not only enjoying it but also possessing culinary skills himself. Under his guidance, even simple meals could be transformed into something extraordinary. In the complex and challenging world of late Qing officialdom, Ding Bao Zhen believed in practicality and achievements as the path of governance. However, this journey was fraught with difficulties and obstacles.
Chen Yun Fei --- Cao Jun
Graceful and talented, he was a counselor and strategist to Ding Bao Zhen. Starting from Guizhou, he faithfully followed Ding Bao Zhen throughout their journey, and their bond was akin to that of a father and son. With his careful approach, meticulous thinking, and the ability to anticipate events, he served as Ding Bao Zhen's right-hand man alongside Li Peirong, complementing one another in both civil and military affairs.
Qi Song Ru --- Qi Hang
His ancestors had also served as officials, but their family fortunes declined, leading them to become impoverished laborers. Therefore, he was determined to enter officialdom and restore the family's reputation. He took advantage of the opportunity to get close to Ding Bao Zhen, approaching people like Li Pei Rong with a strong sense of purpose. He was adept at ingratiating himself and skilled at deception, becoming Ding Bao Zhen's trusted confidant and gaining acceptance from the Ding household. Faced with the temptation of power, he eventually strayed onto the wrong path. However, as a filial son, after his mother's admonition and tragic suicide, he finally had a change of heart and awakened in front of Ding Bao Zhen, putting an immediate stop to his misguided actions.
Yi Xin --- Wang Hai Di
He was a politician during the late Qing Dynasty. He was the sixth son of Emperor Daoguang and was posthumously conferred the title of "Prince Gong" according to the imperial decree. After the death of Emperor Xianfeng, Yixin, along with the two Empresses Dowager, launched the Xinyou Coup and successfully seized power. Yixin was highly skilled in political maneuvering and adept at balancing opposing forces. He was wholeheartedly committed to upholding the Qing government's rule and sought to revitalize the dynasty. He promoted and appointed many capable officials, and he played a behind-the-scenes role in supporting Ding Bao Zhen in various endeavors, such as the execution of An De Hai, the management of the Yellow River floods, and the reformation of governance.
En Cheng --- Hou Tian Lai
He had a gentle temperament, appearing to be pleasant and amiable on the surface, but beneath that facade, there were hidden undercurrents. He embodied the typical mannerisms of a noble Manchu aristocrat. He was skilled in the art of wielding power and was cunning and unpredictable. While lacking the ability to govern effectively, he was a true "playful master," excelling in various pursuits such as gardening, painting, calligraphy, antique collecting, and more. As a member of the Yehe Nara clan, he firmly stood by Empress Dowager Cixi's side, upholding the decaying imperial authority of the Qing court, and was greatly favored by Empress Dowager Cixi.
