Ok, so first off I've always loved historical dramas however I've haven't seen one this long (51eps) since Dae Jang Geum, so I wasn't really sure if I should start it. However after accidentally coming across a short clip posted by MBC on youtube, that was the trigger for me to start this wonderful masterpiece that I'll never forget. The story was very complicated with many plot twists and turning points along the way, there was plenty of political drama coupled with betrayal and sacrifices. For someone who usually watches light hearted romantic comedies, the amount of drama in this whole series was actually very heart-wrenching to watch. However the strong themed romance in the series evened it out for me. I was always a TaNyang supporter right from the beginning, even though many comment on how the emperor was childish and useless throughout the whole drama, I must strongly disagree with that. Yes I believe he started off being a timid, useless crown prince, but it's an undeniable fact that in the later half he has developed to become a reliable and controlling emperor, as proven in the last episode, which blew me away. After finishing the whole series, I believe she truly love the emperor, her feelings for Wangyu might have been extreme feelings of respect and admiration which she mistook for love. Just my opinion however others can argue that. Acting and Cast, need less to say was absolutely amazing. I've always been a fan of Ha Ji Won since Secret Garden and as expected she did not disappoint, this has officially became my favourite drama from her. This drama introduced me to 'Ji Chang Wook' and I really want to ask: "Where have you been my whole life?". Shockingly for a drama fanatic like myself, how have I not discovered him before. His performance in this drama amazed me to no end from the strong character development, to his heart-breaking love for Seungyang. The last episode just broke my heart, leaving a mark that'll never be smeared. I am now on a lookout for any of his other dramas. I loved the soundtrack for this drama, it was fitting and emotionally moving. I have already downloaded it so its clear how much I love it. Since its a 51 episode drama, I won't rewatch it in the short run, however ever since I finished I have already rewatched a few of my favourite episodes numerous times. Maybe half a year later I'll come back to it, depending on how much I remember it could mean rewatching the whole thing or skipping parts. However one thing for sure I will definitely watch it again. Overall, this has to be one of the best historical k-dramas I've come upon. I miss the characters and the waterfall of emotions i felt while watching it. Despite it being long, I recommend anyone who loves historical dramas and romance to try this. P.S For people who love chinese historical dramas, it was very interesting to see how the chinese history was played out through a korean drama. Worth the watch.