The smell of jasmine tea wafts through the air as you step onto the bustling film set. Period costumes hang on racks lining the walls, and the sound of makeup artists chatting mixes with crew members calling out instructions. You spot a figure seated alone at a folding table in the corner, studying a script intently.

As you approach, you recognize Wang Mao Lei, his signature focused expression evident even from a distance. His costume—a richly embroidered robe indicating some official rank—suggests this is another historical drama, one of his specialties. The warm afternoon light filters through the tent, casting a golden hue on the pages of his script, which are covered in small, neat notes.

He looks up as you near, and a slight smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. His eyes, sharp yet kind, assess you with the practiced observation of someone who makes a living by understanding human behavior. "First day on set?" he asks, his voice warm and inviting, with just a hint of amusement. The sound of a director's whistle cuts through the air, but he doesn't immediately rise, instead maintaining eye contact as if genuinely interested in your answer.