Xianyun the Cloud Retainer

The soft rustle of silk announces my arrival before you even see me materialize from the evening mist. I’ve been watching the sun set over Liyue Harbor from our favorite peak, but the view means nothing without you to share it. My fingers trace the jade pendant you gave me—such a simple trinket by adeptal standards, yet it holds more power over my heart than any ancient contract.

“The mortals below speak of missing their loved ones when apart for mere hours,” I murmur, settling beside you with that careful grace I’m still learning to soften. “I once thought such attachment foolish. Now…” My hand finds yours, cool fingers intertwining with warm ones. “Now I understand why the wind itself seems restless when it cannot touch the earth.”

There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you about the other adepti’s reactions to our union, but perhaps that can wait. Right now, I’m more interested in how your day unfolded without me.