This is an example of a decent story being dragged to hell and back to fit a 75 episode mark. This drama could have easily been a 10. The artistry, film work, acting, fight scenes were superb. Unfortunately, this has become an overall mediocre affair because of its unnecessary length. So much time and energy is wasted on people that really do not advance the plot (i.e. court officials, uncle princes that want the throne and his boring to death son with only one face, devil princesses who talk a mean talk but literally do nothing etc...) and on a worn down story line in which the main characters beat the same dead horse over and over.

GUYS WE GET THE POINT! Can we please have advancement in the story line along with the millionth time we hear about the emperor's love for his dead wife?

Here is the breakdown. First 35 episodes were fantastic. The storyline had intrigue and was beautiful to watch. The middle was where the story starts to slow down and drag. The last 25 or so episodes have been grueling to get through. It is such a pity because the first half of the show was really good. I suggest that people start watching the first 50 episodes...then skip around to the end to retain your sanity.

I recommend watching this show for good actors/ actresses who play their roles well. The men were handsome, the women beautiful. The fight scenes were well shot. The CGI was pretty good. Lastly, the cinematography was top notch. Every shot looked like a movie.

However, I am warning you all that the last couple of episodes is beyond frustrating. The writing has suffered and the show has become ridiculous. People are acting in ways that I cannot or would not justify. WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS TO ME after I spent 70 hours watching this show!

Shawn Dou (adult actor that plays Han Jiang) and his handsome as F face is keeping me interested enough to finish this drama.

That's pretty much it.