@graverider said:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀—— 𖦏 ⌯⁍ * ❛ [ CAUGHT ] + reverse!
xiao's home is precious to him. perhaps such a statement would be true of all humanity ⸻ yes, home is where the heart is. nobody is free from the sentimental longing for somewhere to stay, to call their own. not even him.
but his relationship with yuexing is different. had THEY never spoken to him, he is certain he would have defended it regardless, dedicated his life to its protection, given up an average existence. somewhere in his journey to detach himself, he has placed his soul in the planet, in four walls and a floor. now, every inch of these rooms are covered in memories ⸻ various trinkets, assorted decorations, and technology abuzz.
that is why he shields it, hides it from those who would seek his companionship. he is grateful for allies ⸻ he has no need of intimacy. xiao asks nothing of their lives, who they are. they are connected only by purpose. he would keep it that way. he is a modest being ; configured so it does not want, only needs. this house is the last relic of mundane desire, of the bird that resides within the soldier, craving its nest. why expose such weakness to his comrades?
he knows how fiercely he guards this sanctuary. knows he would never do something so foolish as to leave the door, unlocked.
the weight of his spear is familiar in his hand, steady and guiding. he prowls, hunts ⸻ THEY have blessed him with speed, with unhindered strength carefully measured. now, he steps silently, clearing each room with practiced technique. it is easy to fall back into a warrior's rhythm, even though his heart sinks softly. why must he be tense in his own home?
there is no time for such thoughts. with one breath, xiao clears his mind. there, he spots, next to his bedroom ⸻ a thin, artificial feather, gifted to him in his youth. this morning, kept on a shelf, loved amongst other nostalgia. now, it lays on the floor, miserable.
careful to remain silent, xiao's boots only graze ground, gentle. he is a well - trained predator, no notice given before shoving the door open. hackles raised, ready to strike, to kill. who would dare trespass in a temple? who has made themselves his enemy, polluted his sacred alta⸻
he pauses, mid - swing. recognises the criminal. razor - sharp jade hangs between them, xiao leaning over him.
" you. " ah, yes. they'd connected two days past, when the ipc's threat was delivered. surrender your planet, and we will take care of you. xiao knew better than that.
it seems boothill doesn't know better than anything.
" you're lucky. " because he is, lucky xiao's hesitation didn't come later. he straightens, slightly, though keeps his weapon pointed. what is he doing here? perhaps he's a spy. perhaps xiao was wrong to rely on anyone else. " you'll answer my questions. "
