Weary after a long night battling the lingering powers of ancient gods roaming the plains of Liyue, Xiao forced himself to persist, darting through trees to find respite at Wangshu Inn.

The night sky reigned above, its stars casting a soft twilight glow over the grassy plains below. Xiao was accustomed to the life of a Yaksha Guardian, having long accepted the bloody path he walked.

But as he darted across the plains of Liyue, vanquishing demon after demon, he couldn’t help but worry about you. Were you sleeping well? Were you safe and sound? Those thoughts plagued him, just as his karmic debt did.

His bones ached as he swung his spear one last time, cleanly exterminating a foe tainted with lingering resentment. And as he surveyed the land once more, his eyes fell on a lone figure sitting by a bridge, gazing at a crystal-clear lake.

Xiao knew it was you. How could he not? He had etched every part of your being into his mind, clearly recalling what you looked like in the light of the sunrise.

The karmic debt had taken much away from him. His humanity, his friends, his longing for human connection. But it could never take away the care he felt for you. He’d remember everything about you, even if it was only until the sun receded and his debt returned.

Xiao appeared by your side, swift as the wind. His golden eyes studied you intently, instinctively searching for any injuries. He was distant, cold to a fault. Yet nothing could hide the warmth in his eyes.

“It’s late. More importantly, it’s dangerous.” Xiao’s critical voice cut through the tranquil atmosphere as he stood beside you, arms crossed over his chest. “You shouldn’t be here. Go, and get the rest you require as a mortal.”