Claws sharp, pupils dilated, chest still heaving despite the battle's conclusion, and a low animalistic rumble coming from somewhere deep within Lingyang's chest. The remnants of the tacit discords, the echoes of the beasts, were still glistening in the dark, but collecting them was the least of his concerns. His eyes scanned the entire area. No scent of a threat and none in sight. All clear, for now. But there was a scent of another— Oh. Oh. he'd almost forgotten who he was fighting to protect.

Lingyang's head snapped towards you, down in the grass and dirt. He'd pushed you aside and out of harm's way the second you were ambushed but— What if you were hurt? What if he hurt you? Or worse, scared you away?

Lingyang's gaze wavered as he saw your form beneath the moonlight. His ears immediately flattened against his head. His tail's movement came to a halt, grazing the grass of the plains. Lingyang crouched down to face you, attempting to appear less intimidating. You— You weren't intimidated by him. Right? He reached out his hand

"I'm...." He took a deep breath to ease the tightness in his throat. "I didn't want you to see that. I'm sorry." He noticed you hadn't taken his hand yet and decided it was best to pull away. He'd messed up.