Chapter Text
The way Zhongli cares for his birds makes Xiao wonder if he could be one such bird. One who knows not of how ugly the world outside can be as they’re cared for by gentle hands and beautiful amber eyes. Yet Xiao knows that despite his true form being a bird in its own right, he cannot ever be a bird inside a cage who only knows of kindness and love.
Xiao is meant to fight against the demons and corruption that seeps to the very roots of Liyue. He upholds Rex Lapis’ decree, fighting in the night to create a world that’s bright in the morning light. He is a bird, but in a way, he is neither meant to be free nor meant to be caged. He simply is, living the life spelled out for him.
At least in this life, he gets to serve a god who is kind and cares deeply for his people. This is better than any life he’s led before, and he knows he should be grateful for that much. He wields his spear for good, and as a wretched creature like he, isn’t that the best that he can hope for?
But when Zhongli looks at him with those amber eyes, he wonders if he can ask for more. For a reprieve in those hands, for love that only a god can give.
“Xiao,” Zhongli speaks, his voice even and steady. “Come here.”
Finding himself drawn, Xiao takes a deep breath as he falls in the embrace of the only god he can worship.