"Your crimes don't cease to matter because you traveled." Zichen finally looks at the murderer, the trickster and Xingchen is entirely correct. He doesn't trust him and he doesn't know if that can or will change. He isn't as loving of a person as his soulmate.

Setting the teacup down, he touches Xingchen's cheek, holding his breath as if he is doing something that leaves him in awe. But those poor empty sockets. He brushes his thumb against the bandage, feather-light and brings his lips to his soulmate's forehead. A tear slips down his cheek and doesn't try to stop it.

"I missed you more, Xingchen. I won't leave you defenseless ever again."