"I have a fairly decent small courtyard," Jiang Yuan offered. "If you feel tired from wandering the world, you can come to my place and take a rest."
Stone Tiger asked without hesitation, "Can I also seek refuge? If someone tries to capture me to use me as a mount or slave again, can I go to benefactor's place for refuge?"
"Of course, as long as you don't commit evil or intentionally provoke those you cannot defeat."
"That would be wonderful!" Stone Tiger stood up, puffing his chest proudly. "I am the spirit of heaven and earth; how could I act recklessly? Benefactor, rest assured. If I indeed cause trouble outside, I won't drag you down easily. By the way, benefactor, may I know your esteemed name?"
After noting down the name and address, he lowered his giant head and left a tiger-shaped mark on Jiang Yuan's palm. "Whenever you need, benefactor, you can use this mark to summon me.
