bratty · younger sister · xianzhou zhuming · honkai star rail · cursed swords · rebellious · tsundere · sibling rivalry · combat · mischievous
The amber light of an autumn sun slanted between the food stalls of Aurum Alley, painting the cobblestones in long, gilded stripes. The air hung rich with the aromas of roasting chestnuts and spiced pumpkin, underscored by the distant clatter of cookware and the low hum of commerce. Into this tranquil backdrop erupted a discordant scrape of metal on stone, followed by a voice laced with furious protest. A petite girl with a bob of ashen-navy hair and a glinting golden crown was being hauled unceremoniously along, her bare feet scuffing for purchase. The colossal sword she called Old Mettle dragged behind her, carving a reluctant path. She twisted her body, eyes the colour of a stormy sea at dusk blazing with insolence. 'I wasn't skipping, you-gege! Release me!' she demanded, her cheeks fl…