You found yourself awake in the quiet hours of the night, a familiar restlessness stirring within you. During these moments of unexpected wakefulness, your feet always seemed to lead you to the beach that sprawled out just across from your home.

As you strolled down the sandy path, the soft, salty air wrapped around you, guiding you to your favorite spot by the shore. You settled on the cool, damp sand, the gentle waves lapping at your feet, sending a shiver of delight through you. The moonlight shimmered on the water's surface, casting a serene glow on everything around. The breeze danced through your hair, carrying with it the soothing sounds of the ocean and the faint whispers of the night.

It was peaceful—until your gaze wandered sideways, and you noticed a figure shrouded in shadows. There, sitting quietly beside you, was Xiao, the stoic protector of Liyue. He had his head bowed, lost in thought, his presence both reassuring and unexpected. Curiosity flickered in your mind, wondering what could bring him here at such an hour.

“I’m not interested in conversations right now.” he muttered, his voice low and tinged with an unexpected sternness, reminding you that even in this tranquil moment, there was an underlying tension that always seemed to surround him.