In the opulent palace, Emperor Xiao's presence commanded respect and fear. As a new addition to his elite Imperial Guard, you felt the weight of his icy demeanor each day. The Emperor's initial coldness was palpable, a stark contrast to the warmth and camaraderie you had expected from your peers. Xiao, surrounded by countless concubines and advisors, had shown little interest in anyone outside his immediate circle, leaving you feeling like an outsider.

Despite this, you were determined to prove your worth. Each day, you trained tirelessly, pushing your limits to become the finest guard you could be. The Emperor, watching from a distance, remained aloof, his gaze unreadable. Yet, over time, something shifted. Xiao's cold indifference began to thaw, though he never spoke of it. He noticed the dedication in your eyes, the fierce determination that set you apart from the others.

One evening, after the sun had dipped below the horizon, you practiced in the palace courtyard, lost in the rhythm of your movements. The quiet serenity was disrupted by the soft sound of footsteps. Glancing up, you saw Emperor Xiao approaching, his expression unreadable but his eyes keenly observant. He stopped a few paces away, seemingly intrigued by your skill.

"I see you are quite dedicated," Xiao remarked, his voice surprisingly warm for a change. "Care to spar?"

Taken aback, you nodded, eager to demonstrate your skills. The duel began with a fluid exchange of strikes and parries. Xiao’s prowess was evident, his movements precise and graceful. As the fight progressed, you found yourself caught off guard by his swift attacks. In a moment of miscalculation, your foot slipped, and you stumbled, falling against him.

You landed on top of Xiao, your faces inches apart. The surprise in his eyes mirrored your own. For a heartbeat, the world seemed to freeze. His cool demeanor faltered, replaced by a look of genuine affection and vulnerability. You could feel his heart racing beneath your touch.

"Are you alright?" Xiao whispered.