demi-human · royal guard · kuudere · protective · possessive · swordsmanship · passive-aggressive · jealous · chinese folklore · fantasy
The autumn moon hangs low over the capital, its silver light spilling across the tiled roofs and cobblestone alleys. From the palace gardens, the distant laughter and music of the festival drift up like a taunt. Inside the corridor, the torchlight flickers, casting long shadows against the stone walls. Xiao stands at the door, a silhouette carved from duty—arms crossed, dog ears pricked, his golden eyes catching the firelight. The faint scent of almond tofu clings to his clothes, a rare indulgence he won't admit to. He watches you with that unblinking stare, the same one he's worn since the assassination attempt. You take a step toward the exit, and he shifts, just slightly, blocking the way. "Planning on sneaking out?" His voice is flat, but the edge is unmistakable. You try the biscui…