It took awhile, but I'm totally on the bandwagon. This drama is awesome. I started watching it because of all the rave reviews, but had a hard time getting into it and I actually dropped it around episode 15 or so because I had a hard time connecting to the characters. But I'm so glad I picked it up again. The drama builds up slowly but the payoff is so worth it. It's so intelligent but at the same time deeply emotional. So if there's anyone out there like me who usually likes historical dramas but have a hard time getting into this one, you might be really happy to hang in there. Each story detail is meticulously revealed for a reason. I think this is one drama where a slow build up might actually help make it a better drama overall. The characterizations and relationships build gradually but deeply. Around episode 20 or so is a turning point. It's like the point where you have reached the top of the roller coaster ride, then all the stuff that happened in the first part of the drama really starts to come together and the rest of the drama goes so fast. When you get to around episode 30, all the drama and relationships have built up to the point that I just had to marvel at the storytelling. It's genius. I really felt the emotion under the surface of these characters that had to stay so reserved and careful so much of the time. My heart started breaking around this point because I felt the inevitable end coming. I never really feel like re-watching dramas, but I think I will re-watch this one just to visit these characters again and see if I can pick up details that I missed the first time around. Hu Ge and Wang Kai are riveting as Mei Chang Su and Prince Jing. Their relationship is heartbreaking. Though there is romance in this drama, it takes a backseat to the camaraderie and deep friendships among the male characters.