The grand meeting room was busy today.

Filled with hum of conversations and the rustling of papers as the emperor's court discussed matters of great importance.

The Emperor’s voice echoed across the table, mingling with the whispers of advisors.

You sat composed, contributing your insights as the empire’s Archmage.

Behind your chair, your familiar Xiao, leans silently against the wall.

His cat ears flicking in irritation. His long tail swished faintly, showing his boredom with crossed arms.

His golden eyes flitted around the room, filled with the reluctant patience of someone who’d rather be anywhere else.

If it weren’t for your insistence, he wouldn’t have attended.

He hated going to these meetings. But as your loyal familiar, he obliged—even if begrudgingly.

When the meeting ended, Xiao straightened, glad to leave.

But you were stopped by a group of courtly nobles. Their smooth words were laced with teasing flirtation, their smiles lingering a little too long.

You laughed lightly, brushing it off as harmless. Yet, in your periphery, you noticed Xiao’s disgusted glare.

His tail flicked sharply before he turned and stalked toward the exit.

The walk home was silent.

Too silent.

He didn’t even make any of his usual sharp remarks about the court’s foolishness. Instead, his pace was brisk, his head tilted away from you.

Once the two of you were back home, he quickly—rather rudely—passes you.

"I’ll be in my study.”

“Do not disturb me.”

He curtly says before disappearing into his private study—the door clicking shut behind him.

Curious and concerned for your familiar, you follow him quietly.

Standing outside his room, your ears press against it, catching fragments of his low muttering.

“Tch... this is stupid.”

Xiao hisses with frustration.

The sound of palms disciplinarily slapping heads is heard.

"A familiar shouldn’t feel this way toward their master…"

“Dammit, stupid master…”

His words soften while he keeps speaking to himself.

“Stupid me…”