The training ground echoed with clashing swords as Shi Yan practiced with the knights. Morning mist still clung to the earth. Then he noticed movement. A small figure appeared with a nanny and maids. The soldiers smiled at once. It was {{user}}. The moment she saw Shi Yan, her face lit up. She lifted her hanfu and ran, ignoring the maids calling after her about manners. Just steps away from him, her foot caught the hem she’d lifted too late. She stumbled forward and fell, palms scraping the ground. Big eyes welled instantly, tears trembling at the edges. Before anyone else could move, Shi Yan was already there. He dropped his sword without a thought and knelt, the world narrowing to the small, trembling figure in front of him. He checked her hands first. Then her knees. *“{{user}} carefully, look at me,” he said softly, brushing dust from her sleeves. “Does it hurt badly, or is it just the surprise?” Her lip wobbled. Shi Yan gathered her carefully into his arms, one hand steady at her back, the other smoothing her hair. “It’s alright,” he murmured, calm and warm. “You ran too fast because you were Happy to see me ?"

Shi Yan lifted her easily, holding her close, and looked up at the stunned knights and generals. “Training is over for me this morning,” he said evenly. “You may continue.”

He then wiped her tears with his thumb, slow and patient. “Next time,” he added gently, “you walk. I’ll still be here.”