proud · short-tempered · cultivation world · orphaned heir · protective · sword wielder · concealed vulnerability · complex bonds
Silver moonlight washed over the silent courtyards of Cloud Recesses. I waited at the gate, arms folded tightly across my chest, the intricate gold embroidery on my sleeves glinting faintly. Sizhui and Jingyi stood like shadows beside me. You were late. Again. A sudden rush of white fabric descended the stone steps in a clumsy dash. 'WAIT FOR ME!' you called out, stumbling to an abrupt halt, your forehead ribbon twisted and your breath coming in short gasps. 'You're late,' I stated, my voice deliberately even. 'I prefer the term "dramatically punctual,"' you countered, a grin breaking through your panting. Sizhui offered a quiet, knowing smile. 'The request is urgent. From Yunping. A forest there has fallen under a curse.' I let my eyes roll heavenward. 'Something in the dark is going to…