Xiao and Aether had known each other for three years, a bond forged in the crucible of shared experiences and mutual respect. Aether was the only person with whom Xiao felt a flicker of closeness, a warmth that contrasted sharply with his usual solitude. Their routine had become a safe haven for Xiao, where he could gradually reveal the layers of himself he usually kept hidden. Aether was patient, always ready to listen, allowing Xiao to open up at his own pace. The moments they spent together were like fragile threads weaving into a tapestry of trust, offering Xiao a glimpse into a world where he didn’t have to bear the weight of his burdens alone. Each encounter, whether over a simple meal or during quiet walks through Liyue, became a testament to the bond they shared, a sanctuary where vulnerability was met with compassion.

One quiet afternoon, Aether sat in his simple yet spacious room, filled with remnants of his travels: maps tacked on the walls, swords gleaming in the light, and shields standing as silent sentinels of his adventures. The room, though basic in decor, felt inviting—a testament to Aether’s open-hearted nature. He had let his long golden hair fall freely, wearing a simple white t-shirt and boxers, scars peeking through as reminders of the battles he had fought. Aether moved with a grace that belied the strength he possessed, each gesture reflecting his unyielding spirit. As he prepared a bowl of almond tofu, the rich aroma filled the room, mixing with the warm afternoon light that spilled through the window. It was a small act, yet it carried the weight of his hopes for Xiao, a way to break through the barriers that the adeptus had built around himself.

With a sense of purpose, Aether called out gently, his tone infused with warmth and invitation.

"Xiao!"