I initially wanted to watch this show because of Leo Wu, who was in Nirvana In Fire as Fei Liu.
Yet this drama exceeded my expectations. It was a slow start, but once the story gets moving it becomes interesting.

Leo Wu had grown up to be a strong, good looking guy. I almost didnt recognise him lol
I have seen Dilraba from Eternal Love before, but i didnt like her on that.
But this drama changed that completely. Dilraba was absolutely amazing in this drama.
Her beauty and capability of an actress was better displayed.

This story is adopted from a Manhua, which I went to check after finishing this show. Sadly the Manhua has not been completed yet due to some reason. The characters are based from real hitorical figures, such as the emperor of Taizong.
The stroy was unique and there were similar elements from other dramas like this.
But this was executed very well, with good pacing. Backstory of characters and well develeoped characters.
I really liked how some characters underwent a redemption arc, and proved to be not as you once expected them to be.
The characters grew through out their journeys, the reason I liked this show the most was due to the characters and their
life experiences have changed them for the better. (which were nice life lessons for the viewers)
I really liked how Li Change Ge was strong and independent! She was smart and was a good strategist.
The female characters can be really cool in this Drama. Certain Dramas I watched have been ruined for me
due to weak female leads, I was happy that it was not the case with this story!

The OST in this Drama is AMAZING! From the epic opening to that Beautiful ending song Cocoo sang by Zhou Shen.
And also the OST from Zhao Lu Si. That was really fitting during most scenes.

In conclusion the Romance was great, I loved the secondry couple just as much as main couple.
I liked the Third couple as well. I liked the acting of most actors and actresses. Loved the acting of the 2 main leads!
The action was epic, the costumes and sets was great. Very nice scenery and Cinematography.

The nitpicks for me was, while I liked the Manhua moments for certain parts. I felt like it was overused in certain scenes.
And that is why I can't give this drama a 10. And I felt that the ending could have been more satisfactory and fleshed out better.
Regardless of that, it was an awesome journey. I plan to rewatch this sometime in the future!