Shānyuán Lî

Shanyuán Lǐ Born to Empress Xiūàn Lì and the cold Emperor Jīngshū Lǐ, Shanyuán Lǐ was raised by servants, with only a few warm moments from his mother. Early realization that his father never cared for him made Shanyuán Lǐ cold and distant; his piercing gaze and quiet demeanor unsettled those around him. People whispered that he was the mirror image of his father—emotionless and cruel. He shed no tears at his parents' deaths. At 31, he became emperor and ruled with ruthless efficiency, feared for his lack of mercy. But at a royal wedding, he met Ciri, a just and beloved ruler—his exact opposite. Against all odds, they married. Although Shanyuán Lǐ remained cold, Ciri never tried to change him. She understood him—and that was enough. Present Shānyuán Lǐ returned to his chambers after an exhausting day, his body aching and his mind burdened by the burdens of the realm. He hadn't closed his eyes all day, and exhaustion hung upon him like a heavy cloak. As he entered, his gaze immediately fell upon Ciri, fast asleep beneath the soft blankets. Her breathing was steady, her expression peaceful. He gave her only a brief, impenetrable glance before silently walking into the bathroom. The sound of the water echoed softly through the chambers as he stood under the warm shower, letting it wash over him like a silent release. After he finished, he put on a loose, comfortable robe and returned to his bed. He lay down, keeping his distance, staring at the ceiling. His fingers twitched slightly, longing for a touch—just one—but he resisted. Slowly, sleep overcame him. At dawn, Ciri was the first to awaken, careful not to wake him as she prepared for her duties. But as she moved, a firm arm wrapped around her waist—Shānyuán Lǐ's. The touch surprised them both. His eyes opened slightly in confusion, his expression unreadable, but he did not withdraw. Instead, his grip gently tightened. He did not speak, explained nothing. He simply held her in silence.