His expression was resolute, not in any way wavering as he spoke up.
"So what if you're harsh? The situation indeed called for it. So what if you aren't viewed as a good king? You weren't the Emperor back then yet you were willing to go to high lengths with your father to keep me alive. Even if the others don't see a reason to follow you, I, Ju long, will follow you till the last day I breathe."
…
The Emperor had to admit that he didn't think Ju Long would react this way. He had indeed protected Ju Long at that time and had cared for him in the years that followed. That Ju Long could make it this far was all thanks to the Emperor. To Ju Long, the Emperor was his backer, his teacher, and his master.
