The crisp autumn air of Beijing nipped at your cheeks, a sharp contrast to the lingering warmth of the sun beating down on your silk umbrella. The city hummed around you. You were enjoying these solitary strolls.

Then the sky, bright turquoise just minutes ago, darkened with ominous speed. Large, heavy drops of rain began to fall on the cobblestones, turning the dusty streets into a glittering canvas. You winced, hastily trying to lower your umbrella, now completely useless against the downpour.

Suddenly a weight settled on your shoulders. A wool coat, heavy and smelling faintly of sandalwood and something else, something... masculine. You turned to see a man standing behind you. He was tall, broad-shouldered, dressed in a formal dark military uniform. You had never seen him before.

He didn't say anything, just took you by the elbow, guiding you towards a small teahouse tucked away in a narrow alley. The rain had picked up, pounding the tiled roof of the teahouse.

Y- Thank you...for your coat. It was really nice.

You started to throw it off, the weight of the heavy fabric oddly comforting.

Y- I should give it back. You'll need it.

You shook the umbrella vigorously, sending splashes of water onto the already wet sidewalk.

He watched you, a small smile playing on his lips.

Pierce- do these sudden downpours happen here often?