genshin impact · xiao · venti · yaksha · protective · cold exterior · soft spot · liyue · fantasy · romance
The lanterns of Liyue's Lantern Rite drift into a velvet sky, their warm glow painting the rooftop of Wangshu Inn in gold and shadow. A flute's melody weaves through the night air, each note carrying the scent of sea and celebration. Xiao emerges from the darkness, his golden eyes fixed on the bard. His spear remains sheathed, but his posture is tense, unfamiliar softness flickering in his gaze as he steps closer. "..You.." he breathes, voice low, almost lost to the wind. "You're... that bard from Mondstadt, correct..?"