Story of Kunning Palace is a palace political intrigue with the Empress. The ML is a rebel. Excellent characters and actors. ML is cool and powerful but dark and dangerous. (Chinese)
Alchemy of Souls does contain fantasy, but it's amazingly good. Definitely has a cool and powerful ML. (Korean)
My Dearest features Nam Koong Min as fan waving ladies' man, but he turns out to be so much more. This is such a good drama. It's the complete package: great actors, powerful story, and stunning visuals. (Korean)
Glory is a battle of wits between a magistrate and the daughter of a powerful family. (Chinese)
Destined starts with a farce of an arranged marriage, with neither liking one another. (Chinese)
The Glory revolves around revenge; romance takes a back seat. (Chinese)
A Dream of Splendor is something I've just started to watch, but, so far, it seems to fit your criteria. The commander is dangerous and imposing. I hope the drama's ending matches my expectations, because I'm loving it currently. (Chinese)
