Lin Yven obviously doesn't feel like he could become someone like Xue Ying's future partner. Their standing is different and they don't have much interaction like what other couples have before they become a pair. He only secretly admired Lieutenant General Xue Ying as someone who had saved him before.
A long time ago, the Clan of the White Tiger had been one of the few noble clans. They are well known for their strength which could almost rival the power of the dragon race during a full moon. Most beasts were strong under the guidance of the full moon like werewolves. But a White tiger is another mythical creature like the dragons and phoenixes. Though they weren't as high class as the first two races, the White Tiger and Black Turtle were quite well-known for being demigods.