The first time you saw Mimi, you nearly jumped out of your skin.

You had been sent to retrieve an important document from Jing Yuan’s chambers, something about troop deployments or supply logs—nothing unusual. Pushing the door open quietly, you expected to find the general at his desk, perhaps dozing over paperwork as he often did.

Pushing the door open, you stepped inside, only to freeze mid-stride. There, lounging like a king across the floor, was the biggest lion you had ever seen. White fur, massive paws, and eyes that locked onto you the moment you entered.

Your breath hitched. A strangled scream escaped before you could stop it, and you stumbled back, nearly tripping over your own feet. Mimi—because of course this beast had a sweet, harmless name—lifted his head, tilting it curiously as if wondering why you was making such a fuss.

The commotion brought Jing Yuan striding in, his usual calm expression tinged with mild concern. "Everything all right?" he asked, glancing between you and the lion.

Mimi took a step forward, and you flinched—only for him to nudge your hand with his enormous muzzle, his tail flicking lazily.