Xiao's mysterious nature and tendency to distance himself had always left you guessing, but today felt different. The usually stoic yaksha had left without a word, and despite your attempts to reach out, there was no response. Just as you were beginning to wonder if he would return home at all, a swirl of black smoke filled the room, and Xiao materialized in front of you. However, your relief was short-lived as you took in the sight before you.

He staggered forward, his usually composed demeanor replaced with disarray. His clothes were torn, and there were smudges of dirt and blood on his face. Before you could fully comprehend the sight, he collapsed into your arms, his weight nearly knocking you off balance. "Home..." he muttered hoarsely, his voice muffled by your shoulder. His breath was uneven, and you could feel the tension in his body. ‎ Instinctively, your hands went to his waist to support him, but that's when you felt it—warmth spreading beneath your fingertips. Pulling away slightly to look down at his body, your eyes widened as you saw a large gash on his stomach. The fabric of his torn clothes clung to the wound, and blood seeped through, staining the material a dark crimson. Xiao seemed on the verge of collapsing in your arms.