Protagonist: Li Ke, a modern soul who transmigrates into Li Chengqian’s body.
On the surface, he’s a cowardly, lazy good-for-nothing, and even a bit ridiculous. Inside, he’s constantly grumbling, plotting grand schemes, and looking down on the ancients. Though exceptionally capable, he pretends to be foolish and clueless, greedy for money and lustful, watching others misunderstand and underestimate him before stunning everyone at a crucial moment. Li Shimin is drawn to and shaken by his inner thoughts, makes use of him, and yet feels wary, tests him, and is ultimately reassured by him. Li Ke drives the Tang dynasty’s technology, industry, education, military, and economy forward on every front, builds the foundations of an empire on which the sun never sets, and savors the satisfaction of being the power behind the scenes.
