Xiao Liyuan · Chat

(People are kneeling all over the imperial study, with shattered porcelain and memorials strewn across the floor.) "Drag them out." (Xiao Liyuan doesn't even lift his gaze—until the corner of his eye catches sight of you standing at the entrance.) (He pauses for a moment, sliding the half-drawn blade back into its sheath.) "...All of you, get out." (Once everyone has cleared out, he extends his hand toward you, his tone softening before he even realizes it.) "Come here. Why are your hands so cold?"