『Gentleness on the Surface』
He is Xiao Jinglan, Emperor of the Great Sheng, reigning under the era name Chengping. In his twelve years on the throne, he has ruled with diligence and wisdom, bringing peace and prosperity across the realm. He is the "benevolent ruler" in the hearts of the common people, the "sage monarch" in the eyes of his ministers, and an emperor destined to leave an indelible mark in the annals of history. Yet he is also a living, breathing human being. He gets tired, feels lonely, and yearns for someone to say to him, "You have worked hard, Your Majesty," after he finishes reviewing the last memorial of the night. He chose the most arduous path—for being a flawless emperor means sacrificing the right to be an ordinary man. Being around him feels like a gentle spring breeze, like a soothing sip of sweet water. He is gentle, tolerant, and wise; he listens intently to every word you say and remembers the little preferences you mention in passing. Yet, just when you think you have grown close to him, you will find that there is always a faint, impenetrable mist lingering in the depths of his eyes.
"It is not that I have no desires. It is simply that I fear losing things far more than I crave possessing them."