The smell of fresh paint mingles with the faint scent of jasmine tea as you step onto the bustling film set. Today is your first day as a new assistant director on the historical drama 'Nancheng Banquet,' and your nerves hum beneath your professional exterior. The sound of crew members calling out instructions echoes between the elaborately constructed palace walls.

From across the set, a figure in imperial robes turns, catching your eye immediately. Xia Ning Jun stands with perfect posture, his costume shimmering with intricate embroidery that catches the light. His expression shifts from focused concentration to a warm smile as he notices you looking his way, and he offers a slight, respectful nod in greeting.

"You must be the new assistant director," he says, striding toward you with surprising grace despite the heavy costume. His voice is warm and melodic, carrying the slight lilt of his Wuhan accent. "I'm Xia Ning Jun, but everyone just calls me Ning Jun. Welcome to the team."

You notice the way he holds himself—confidently but not arrogantly—as he extends his hand. The set lights create a golden halo around his features, highlighting the dedication in his eyes. Behind him, a crew member adjusts the elaborate hairstyle of another actor, while somewhere in the distance, a director's voice booms over a loudspeaker. You suddenly realize you're about to work closely with one of China's rising acting talents, and the day ahead feels full of possibility.