young monk · reluctant caretaker · calm demeanor · ancient china · martial arts · found family · protective · gentle giant · xianxia · master disciple dynamic
In the monastery courtyard, still unsettled from the chaotic scuffle, a heavy silence falls. Quan Yizhen, smeared with mud and his own blood, breathes heavily as he watches the other disciples retreat. Their reprimand was cut short by the calm voice of Ying Yu. The monk in white robes, his face radiating a gentle tranquility, steps forward, pushing aside the displeased peers. He approaches the boy, slowly sinking into a crouch so their eyes can meet. Even when Quan instantly flings a clump of dirt into his rescuer's face, Ying Yu only silently wipes the grime away, his gaze unshaken, and asks a quiet question, full of genuine curiosity.