[ unfortunately, things are not as simple with his uncle as it seems, but that's... not something to get into now.

he relaxes somewhat at the continuation of the subject, finally letting his shoulders sag and he manages to look a little exasperated instead of distraught. ]

She always runs off everywhere and makes me run after her. It's troublesome and really a pain, but...

[ he pauses, because of course that's just a small part of it all, and Xiānzǐ was, instead of a inanimate object like his sword, a warm and welcome comfort. so while he doesn't puff his chest out while he says it, he does sound proud, regardless. ]

But she's mine and she's also the best spirit dog.