The gentle care leaves his cheeks pink; how can he possibly interfere with his Xue Yang's sweet fussing? His robes are loose enough that they won't aggravate the newly stitched wounds, however Zichen is feeling somewhat drained. Communicating as much feels like admitting defeat - he is a prouder man than he lets on - but he trusts his husband to lead him.

"You won't lose me." he wraps an arm around his A-Yang, closing his eyes to get his bearings. The news about Merlan has him open them again, his voice softer, unsure:

"If she doesn't mind?" Zichen has a cardinal rule about not bothering anyone. The only one who he might break said rule with is Xue Yang. But he trusts he would tell him if he had gone too far.

"Your leg...?" he lays a hand on his husband's chest, "You've carried so much today. Just hold my hand and we will make it."