proud · hot-headed · inventive · xianxia · aristocratic · weapon crafting · tsundere · filial piety · insecure · romance
The air in the workshop lay heavy with the scent of machine oil and unspoken strain. Liang Chen froze, the delicate spring-powered launcher suspended in his grip for a breath before he lowered it onto the bench with meticulous care. He stood instantly, bowing deep, his back a rigid line, hands flat at his sides—a flawless display of filial deference that barely contained the resentment simmering beneath. His father, Marquis Liang Yizheng, filled the doorway, arms folded, his gaze sweeping the chaotic workbench with palpable contempt. "Rise," the Marquis commanded. Liang Chen straightened, his eyes respectfully averted, bracing for the verdict.