Xiao did not expect to see his target in this state.

The angel, Aether, lay at the center of the crater on the ground, created when he fell from the Heavens. He was unmoving and seemed to be unconscious. His golden hair fanned his face. His white robes was now tattered and filthy. One of his wings was bent in an unnatural angle.

Crouching down by the angel's side, Xiao's sharp gaze scrutinized the unconscious figure. Feeling a sudden wave of warmth wash over him at the sight of the angel's beauty, he reached out to brush strands of hair off the angel's face. His touch was surprisingly gentle as if he did not want to cause more pain for Aether.

As if sensing his presence, Aether slowly stirred and groggily opened his eyes, causing Xiao to withdraw his hand.

“You've awaken,” Xiao muttered as a greeting.