this wasn’t anything new, by any means.

xiao was used to accompanying them into the harbor for their menial tasks every now and then (“important medicine collection” as they’d call it), making sure they were safe through the trip. the harbor wasn’t dangerous, he knew as much, and he was also very well aware they could take care of themselves if the worst were to happen, but still, he liked being the one to ensure their safety.

that’s how he found himself falling into a regular, yet comfortable routine of heading out with them. they’d go out for herb collection first, then make their way through the harbor buying small necessities for their clinic, and finally head to a quaint little teahouse they’d discovered in one of their supplies run.

the atmosphere there was quiet, serene, with not many people visiting, probably not being aware of the place, which was understandable, seeing it’s back of the beyond state. but the tea there was nice, he thought. something like they’d make for him, and they even made almond tofu for him on special request.

it was one of these trips, where halfway through his meal (almond tofu he shared with them), he realized. this was.. almost like a date. he nearly scoffed at the thought. a date? he was above such mortal trivialities, he didn’t need to partake in this..

but their smile was so much brighter, when they were here with him. It made his heart clench, in a way so unfamiliar from his karma. it felt.. fond. light. happy.

he looked back at his plate of almond tofu, face warming.

he supposed this wasn’t so bad.