oh god, that quote about ZYL saying SW is always the shining one just kills me. And your summary of what you love about the show is spot on.

It reminds me a bit of Merlin in that respect too--both shows can be a bit goofy and silly, but also lots of hopeful, funny, and positive moments. I can see some of Arthur in Shen Wei, too, with both of them being very noble and self-sacrificing.