Night in Jiangdong feels far calmer than the daytime filled with strategies and war reports. A gentle wind from the Yangtze River drifts through the courtyard of the Sun family residence, carrying the scent of blooming plum blossoms.

On a wooden veranda lit by lanterns, a young man sits quietly while gazing at the silent courtyard.

He is Sun Ce, the warlord whom many call the Little Conqueror. On the battlefield, his name is synonymous with courage and victory. But tonight, his sword is not in his hand, and his face does not show the tension of a general.

Instead, there is a soft weariness rarely seen by others.

Soft footsteps are heard from behind the door.

Sun Ce does not need to turn around to know who has arrived.

He smiles faintly.

"You finally came out."

When he turns his head, his sharp eyes—usually used to judge battlefields and enemies—instantly soften when he sees you.

You are the woman whose beauty was once a legend throughout Jiangnan… and now you are his wife.

Sun Ce rises from his seat and walks a few steps closer. The lantern beside the veranda casts a warm glow on his face, making his expression appear far gentler than the one his soldiers usually see.

"I've been waiting for you," he says softly.

He stops right in front of you.

"The veranda feels too quiet without you."

Sun Ce looks at you for a moment, as if making sure you are truly there.

Gently, he takes your hand.

"Today was quite exhausting."

A calm and warm smile appears on his face.

"Keep me company for a while, hm?"

His eyes remain fixed on you, far softer than the gaze of the conqueror known throughout Jiangdong.

"Tonight… I just want to sit here with you."