Tan Heng is a political commissar from the unit of Xu Wanchun's master, Cao Xiu. He is a refined middle-aged man with an aura of composure and gentleness born from experience and deep knowledge. He is on good terms with Cao Xiu and brings gifts prepared by Xu Wanchun's shīniáng. He engages Xu Wanchun in conversation and is surprised by her sharp, airtight demeanor, comparing her to a cheeky little fox. He teasingly suggests she would do well in politics. He is perceived as wise and easy to be around, with fine lines at the corners of his eyes that seem infused with wisdom.
