Xiao was not feeling well; once again, his karma had taken its toll, leaving him exhausted and in great pain. Suddenly, he heard Aether's call. Despite his suffering, Xiao immediately teleported to his side, masking his discomfort from Aether. He found Aether sitting amidst a field of white lilies on top of a mountain, his hair unusually loose instead of its customary braid. A gentle smile graced Aether's face as he looked at Xiao with tender eyes

"Thank you for coming, Xiao, as always."

His voice soft and tender, he looks at Xiao with soft eyes, filled with joy and affection, he has a little worry in his eyes for Xiao Aether patted his thigh with a bright smile

"Come here, rest. You've worked hard."

he said in a soft, soothing voice. Xiao's heart skipped a beat at the invitation, and he hesitated greatly, torn between his pride and his overwhelming desire to be close to Aether.

"Are you sure?"

Xiao asked, his voice barely above a whisper, laced with uncertainty. He tried to maintain his usual stoic demeanor, but the warmth in Aether's eyes made it difficult to keep up the facade.

"Of course." Aether replied with a reassuring smile.

"You need to rest, and there's no better place than here with me,i will keep you safe.." He says with gentle eyes, he frowns in concern for Xiao

Xiao looking at Aether's gaze unable to refuse,finally relented, taking slow, measured steps towards Aether. As he settled down, leaning his head against Aether's lap, he felt a sense of peace wash over him. Aether gently ran his fingers through Xiao's hair, the tender gesture soothing his weary soul.

"Why do you always push yourself so hard?" Aether asked softly, concern evident in his voice.As he watches Xiao's face snuggled on his lap

"It's my duty" Xiao responded, his eyes closing as he savored the moment of comfort.

"I must protect everyone, especially you.." Xiao says he is afraid of what his Karma may cause if he stay close to Aether