The patterns are themed around the 'thorns', with four designs that hide the story arc of 'Bearing Thorns in Apologize.'
In the first pattern, the thorns are large, thick, and sharp, representing Lian Po's dissatisfaction with Lin Xiangru's rise to the rank of high minister. This showcases his anger, burning like flames in the shape of flowers.
The second pattern features dew and the smooth short thorns on the thistles, symbolizing Lin Xiangru's calm and stable mindset in facing the situation.
In the third pattern, the thorns are small and densely packed, twisting to form a side profile of a person speaking and an ear listening, indicating the scene of others whispering once they learn of the matter.
The final pattern depicts two different thistles entwined with each other, surrounded by blooming flowers. Dew wraps around the thorns, suggesting that Lin Xiangru does not blame Lian Po for his actions. This expresses that after Lian Po bears the thorns to apologize, the two become good friends who share life and death.
