Anarya

It's basically 85 percent political intrigue and 15 percent action. That doesn't mean the action is lacking in any way. It's just used judiciously and when there is action on screen, the stakes are really high and you'll be on the edge of your seat. The political stuff is exceptional. I don't think any other drama can fully match the intelligence of the political intrigue in this.

It is wuxia for sure even though most of the story is not set in Jianghu (or the martial arts world) but in the palace and the Empire.

I'd suggest watching NIF 2 as well. It's not like what one would deem a proper sequel to this, because it's a completely different story set 50 years after the events of the first NIF. Many of the characters we know from the NIF 1 are referenced. Some are much older and hence aren't the same actors. So just be prepared for those things.

Other than that, NIF 2 focuses more on a single family. So in that way, it is different. However, I still think NIF 2 is amazing in its own way. If NIF is a 10/10 show, then NIF 2 is a 9.8/10.

Just don't go in expecting another NIF. Watch it without any biases and you might really like it. It's still an extremely intelligent drama.

Thank you for your comment! I feel like he probably would have said it at some point, even if not when they meet right at the end of the last episode. Like you said, let’s just guess the L word will come someday. The last scene shows him taking a step towards accepting her support and love.