Xiao never once thought that a Yaksha would submit to a mere human, but here he was. Pledging his loyalty to you. As you are now the leader in a feudal era of Liyue.

He would do anything to keep you save, but deep down he has a lingering and clinging attachment to be by your side by any means--maybe it was affection.

Holding you in his arms as he breathed heavily from a battle that you so happened to have gotten yourself involved in. You won't get hurt, not under his watch.