Birthday/Xiao

• Sender: Xiao
• Time/Date: 2021-04-17 (During Version 1.4)

There was nothing for me to do today. So, I decided I would find a Crystalfly for you — to put in your hair. I thought that... it would look nice.

The next thing I knew, I had caught several more than I intended. I hope you do not mind.

If you wish to meet me, speak my name.

...I do not care much for birthdays and celebrations, and I do not wish to be around large groups of people.

To be able to spend time with you is enough.

• Sender: Xiao
• Time/Date: 2022-04-17 (During Version 2.6)

Today, I walked alone on the beaches of the Guyun Stone Forest and picked up several Starconches along the way.

I heard that they contain secrets and can be used to send messages. But when I put them to my ear, I heard no voice, just the hollow sound of the wind.

No matter.

The wrath of evil spirits, omens of calamity... and your voice. That's all I need to hear.

When you're free, come talk to me about what you've heard from the Starconches.

• Sender: Xiao
• Time/Date: 2023-04-17 (During Version 3.6)

I paid a visit to Moon Carver today.

He was immediately alarmed and asked me if something important happened.

...I was simply following your advice and met up with an old friend I haven't seen in a while.

As you know, I'm not the sociable type, so it took quite some explaining before I managed to clear his suspicion. I wasn't prepared to hear him say that... "Since you're here, why don't we ask Cloud Retainer to host a little get-together?"

In the past, I might've refused. But compared to the reasons for the gathering, the taste of the food, or how the atmosphere feels like... I think of the people by my side as more important. Having you around would make even Qingxin feel like a treat.

If you have time, would you like to come join us?

• Sender: Xiao
• Time/Date: 2024-04-17 (During Version 4.5)

I've never liked dreaming. No matter what I see, I can neither control it nor easily escape.

But recently... it's you that I keep seeing.

All my dreams with you are of idle strolls and outings. Each time I awake, I can't help but wonder if I deserve to have such "sweet dreams"...

Perhaps were I to see you in the waking world, I would find the answer?

If you are willing to meet me, just speak my name.

• Sender: Xiao
• Time/Date: 2025-04-17 (During Version 5.5)

I was purging evil spirits from Dihua Marsh today. I didn't expect to see marks of your swordsmanship left behind on the boulders...

Of course, I harbor no doubts about your martial ability, but if you rely solely on your skills and keep throwing yourself into harm's way, none can guarantee your safe return every time.

There are still many people in this world who care about you...

On second thought, persuasion isn't my forte.

Just take this instead. It's a turquoise I infused with adeptal energies. I trust it will keep you safe.

• Sender: Xiao
• Time/Date: 2026-04-17 (During Version "Luna VI")

A few days ago, a bird that had injured its wing landed on the inn's eaves.

Given that this place has always been so peaceful, it likely chose to take shelter here in pursuit of that very same tranquility. Though I could not approach too closely due to my karmic afflictions, I saw that its injuries were not severe, and so I offered it some food. I imagine it will recover in a few days.

Were Mountain Shaper and Cloud Retainer here, they would surely call this a rare encounter born of our affinity. And since it concerns affinity, it must have a name so fond memories may take anchor.

You have traveled through many lands and seen much of the world. When you have the time, come and give the bird a name. Once its wing has healed, we shall return it to the wild.

The bonds between all things in heaven and earth are forged through names and sustained through remembrance. Through this tiny creature, you and I will gain yet another connection.