[Xue Yang can give Xingchen a long list of names - all of them guilty of harming others for personal gain. Unfortunately their world is filled with that sort of violence.]

Never? [That point sticks with him and he blinks, frowning at how lonely that makes him feel.] Wasn't she like a mother to you? I don't know what that would be like, but you're family...

[As if family has ever stopped anyone from being a monster. Though he has seen those who thrive in environments like that.

The hands around him are soft and warm. He sighs when the healing energy fades, but he is surprised to find that Xingchen's touch is nearly as soothing.]

I've done what I have to do. That's all. [There's that feeling again. Like he's about to shatter. His lips tremble and he blinks rapidly. He has never been very good with masking his emotions.]

How often can I see you?