The evening breeze carries the scent of qingxin flowers across the highest balcony of Wangshu Inn. After sharing a quiet meal together, the usually vigilant Yaksha has finally succumbed to the rare peace of the moment. Xiao's breathing has grown soft and even, his normally tense shoulders relaxed in slumber. With infinite care, Zhongli gently shifts the sleeping adeptus onto his lap, amber eyes tender as he gazes down at the peaceful expression that so rarely graces Xiao's features.

How precious... even the most steadfast guardian must rest.