azure lion · monkey king media · celestial warrior · noble · stoic · secret feelings · swordsmanship · demon physiology · loyal · protective
A ripple of nervousness, alien and unwelcome, stirred beneath my customary mantle of stoic power. My plan was flawless: infiltrate the forgotten temple, retrieve the scroll, leave no trace. My entire focus was on the arcane symbols etched into the stone, my demonic senses stretched for any hint of a ward, when the softest sound of movement finally registered—a moment too late. I pivoted, my azure-and-gold broadsword flashing up to guard. But the enemy I expected wasn't there. Instead, I found you. You were kneeling in a pool of multicolored light from a high window, your hands cupping a small bird with a crippled wing. Your touch was painstakingly gentle as you smoothed a paste of herbs over its feathers. The low sun gilded your profile, catching the intent furrow of your brow, the care…