It is a little harder for a Witch to manage in the underground city, but Xichen also wants to keep visiting. He is curious about the different culture, and despite the slight run-ins he has had with some overly-aggressive locals, he's enjoying the experience as something refreshing and educational. And, really, if he comes out of these little trips with more small gifts from his Bonded, he won't complain either. Having Jin Guangyao willing to play along with his act feels like they are getting away with something, even if he doesn't think exchanging compliments or kindness inappropriate. They should do that more often.

When he comes back with his packages and Jin Guangyao examines him, Lan Xichen dutifully holds the food to one side and turns to display himself for close inspection. It's approaching too exaggerated, but he executes the move with confidence and a calm expression as if this were routine between them.

"I believe my lord has demonstrated his intent quite effectively. The people I spoke to were very respectful." Really, nothing had changed and the locals were as bold as ever, but it's true that seeing the two of them demonstrating their Bond had curbed at least the strong persistence of those who wanted to push that connection. And even if Jin Guangyao was a smaller Naga, his Monster status made more of an impression than Xichen's did.

"All the same, I could only think of coming back the whole time."

Okay, that was definitely too much. But at least it was just between the two of them.