Yushi awoke to a dull ache all over his body. He was reminded of how tender his bruises still were especially when he rolled onto his side where the worst one on his shoulder was. He groaned as he sat upright, fortunately the pain wasn't as bad as yesterday. He wanted to peel off the bandages since surely the balm had its chance to soak in by now, but it was too dark in the room to even consider fully assessing the damage.
Finally deciding to rise for the day he glanced out the window and noticed it was just as dawn was barely kissing the horizon. Seeing the faintest light over the ocean horizon had him quite worried he might be missing Xueye's departure.
After lighting a nearby lamp he spotted a folded paper dragon left just inside the door on the floor. He knew it was a small note from Riluo, usually if it was a small secret or something personal he'd often left them in that form. It was a lingering quirk he'd had from their rebellion.
Thankfully it was informing him of their planned time to leave. Yushi relaxed instantly. While he slept far longer than he expected, he was happy he didn't miss seeing Xueye one last time.
He went back to focusing on removing the bandages. As he peeled them aways, much to his surprise many of the bruises faded already despite how tender the spots felt. Looking in the mirror it was apparent that even the nasty one left on his shoulder had gone from nearly blackened to the faintest of yellowish discoloration. He didn't recall the doctor's treatments to have worked so effectively in the past. He doubted the doctor's treatment improved that drastically in recent years, especially if the balm was something Dr.Jingji's assistant knew how to make well already. Granted there was a possibility the newer rare herbs helped but he still didn't think this much progress would occur over the course of a several hours. He suspected something else in his inherent nature shifting once more.
"Another change?" Yushi sighed, shrugging on fresh robes. He would have to inquire later to see the opinion of those more knowledgeable. He suspected only Jinse would really be able to provide an answer as Shizhe wouldn't be able to tell the whole answer.
Yushi didn't ponder it much longer given that he wouldn't get very far without outside knowledge, so he finished getting ready for the day. Given the hour he didn't expect anyone to be up just yet, so he settled in his study for a little while.
Just as he expected, there was a small stack of documents on top of which was a note that Riluo left to summarize the palace business he thought best to bring to his attention before he left. Yushi was surprised there wasn't more, suspecting he distributed some of his work to other members of the upper court.
One matter already had him sighing in frustration. A couple clans were requesting a meeting. Riluo had apparently been informing them that the emperor was too busy but two in particular have been more insistent. The Ju and Fusang clans were apparently being rather pushy about it. It was unfortunately common for them to always be trying to better their position or twist something more in their favor. They were both the more business oriented of the clans, he expected them to complain about the new contract laws after having caught a glimpse at how much work Xueye had to put into arranging contracts. Yushi expected the less insistent ones were also pushing for a clan meeting just to capitalize on their own gains.
Yushi genuinely disliked the majority of the clans, with only three of the eight being the only exceptions. They were the only ones that didn't throw a fit over Yushi retracting the power the clans held over the court. In fact, they were the only clans that supported and helped make the transition of power smoother.
Clan meetings were the way to appease the ones that were not happy about Yushi taking away their power that used to be much akin to the current upper court. It kept those that opposed him from trying to rise up against them. It was also the best way to influence their ideas and sway over the populace, since Yushi couldn't really interact with them as Shujing. They were among the handful that had seen his face long before the idea of Shujing even existed.
He understood Riluo tended to keep nuisances like this at bay for a while but he wished it was brought to his attention sooner. While Riluo was rarely at the meetings he did handle a lot of the tasks behind such events. Yushi would have to see if Shizhe was up to arranging it. Typically she handled ceremonies and festivals so surely a clan meeting would be easy enough for her to handle while she is recovering.
His other concern was that they still hadn't located where the Elians were staying. Their ship was repaired but apparently the ship's captain had not seen either of the Stylliani siblings since they disembarked. The captain was clearly not very trusted by them as they never told him where they were staying.
"What are you snakes up to?" Yushi huffed bitterly as he read and re-read the details. Korina's bitter words he'd overheard came to mind once more. He hoped that she hadn't found out about Xueye yet. He certainly wasn't going to let her just get away with trying to do what she wanted and play ignorant.
He finally settled at his desk, having been pacing about as he read Riluo's report. Korina was always the scheming type. Yushi knew she wasn't keen on her place in Elia's royal line which was why she was so adamant about trying to gain power. While Yushi was aware some of her ploys weren't from Elia's king yet the man didn't particularly care enough to stop her. Yushi was considering a thinly veiled threat of war could be more than enough to motivate the king to put a stop to her nonsense. The only reason he hadn't pushed this yet was in hopes of keeping the peace. Her pitiful attempts to gain his favor in the past were tolerable even if they were getting annoying in recent years, she never overstepped until recently. Then again Yushi never expressed interest in another.
Quite some time passed as he was trying to draft a missive to the Elian king. He kept reading back over it and it just sounded far too aggressive so he started over. With Xueye leaving later he was just getting far too worked up again.
Glancing out the window he saw the sky was finally turning blue with the early morning sunlight. He couldn't resist the temptation to go see Xueye much longer. Perhaps after a little time in his calming presence he'd be able to find the right words.
Yushi cleaned up the mess, burning the failed attempts to keep any misunderstandings should the wrong person find them. Even if no one was allowed into his study aside from the upper court members, spies still lurked in the palace halls despite their best efforts to get rid of them. More would always be sent in their place. With Riluo leaving it was much more likely some could slip in since he wouldn't be monitoring the new staff closely as he usually did. They would have to be even more cautious until his return.
Yushi was doing his best to avoid being noticed by those working in the early morning by taking less frequented halls of the palace. So he was greatly surprised to find Shizhe and Xinhua when it was so clearly out of their way. Yushi sighed knowing Shizhe likely was seeking him out.
"Good morning, Your Highness," Shizhe said in a sweet, chipper tone that was quite rare for such an early morning. It seemed out of place with Xinhua looking so serious in light armor not entirely indicative of the imperial guard.
"Should I be worried you are intercepting me?" Yushi would prefer to not waste what little time he had left with Xueye but if Shizhe felt the need to interrupt that, even for a moment, there had to be something troublesome.
"You worry too much," Shizhe giggled. She wasn't surprised he was cutting to the chase, nor that he saw through her. She looked to Xinhua to take it since they shared the same concerns.
"You're certain?" Xinhua seemed reluctant to inform him.
"Quite," Shizhe nodded with a sweet smile.
"I spoke with Xueye briefly yesterday. You really are wearing down those walls of his," Xinhua said with a mildly relieved smile. "It's great, truly. I'm afraid he's reaching a realization that could be a problem with his current condition if he dwells on it too deeply. Your words and Jinse's carry so much weight for him but he's still healing from his past. So please be gentle with him today."
"That is my hope," Yushi closed his eyes. "I loathe to let him leave but it's for his health and safety. I've done what I can to help him for now."
"About that, you have some nerve getting him that gift," Xinhua glared at him. "You could have given yourself away. Who knows what could have happened if he learned about your secret."
"I want to tell him but even I have the sense to wait until he's better," Yushi shrugged. "I admit it was foolish. In my defense, I hadn't really slept and it was raining so my judgement wasn't the best."
"You're just lucky he was distracted, he might catch on if you aren't careful," Xinhua huffed. "I just don't know how he'll react to knowing you concealed something so important."
"That's been my biggest worry in telling him." It had been a fear in the back of his mind, even if Xueye seemed to understand his secrets were for Xueye's safety. Yushi was most worried if Xueye would retreat, thinking himself unworthy of the emperor's attention. "I know I have to eventually but no sooner than when this current matter is all settled."
"That's why you told him he had to wait," Xinhua sighed, she suspected but it brought up more anxiety over the matter. "Give him a little time, even after we return. This whole mess has just dragged up memories of one of the worst times in his life to the surface." Shizhe quietly squeezed her lover's hand, knowing full well it was the same for Xinhua. Xinhua took a deep breath, "I'm sorry. I worry about him…"
"No need to apologize for that," Yushi's smile was filled with a gentle understanding. "You two are the few that know him best. I know I get a little carried away in the moment with him at times but I do hope you both will still try to reign me in when necessary."
"I agree with Xinhua," Shizhe nodded. "I know it may be difficult to refrain given your true nature but his situation is delicate in many ways. There is much I would like to discuss on the matter but that can wait. We will have plenty of time in the coming days."
"Yes, there is much I would like to discuss anyways once we see them off," Yushi nodded with a tender smile. "If you don't mind."
"I would love to chat later," Shizhe beamed. "Now go spend time with him. Try not to clash with Jinse too much, he was looking after Xueye last night."
"Right…" Yushi was visibly a little more tense. Yushi let out a grumbled breath, "I know I really should get better when it comes to him. Really, I just can't shake this reaction."
"Honestly, not surprised, he likes to get under people's skin a little," Xinhua giggled.
"Patience," Shizhe flashed an all knowing smile. One that Yushi only saw when she knew the solution to the most obvious problem that he had yet to figure out. He knew he was going to dread learning how things resolved between him and Jinse, purely out of annoyance he held towards Jinse.
In fact, Yushi was turning it over in his mind the entire way to Xueye's. If it really was so simple then why did it elude him? Was the dragon so possessive over Xueye Yushi couldn't see past the irrational bitterness that often formed. Even after Jinse so clearly protected those Yushi valued most, his first instinct remained being abrasive towards Jinse. It felt unfair to him, yet even knowing that Yushi was still stuck on this.
Shizhe's warning in itself was likely the hint, the more he considered it. Clearly the solution wasn't so straightforward lest she wouldn't have phrased it so simply. It was a start, and when it came to Xueye's safety and wellbeing they have both proven to work well together on keeping him content and happy. Yushi would have to remind himself to focus on that more whenever such a reaction rose to the surface once again.
As he walked up the steps to Xueye's home, the front door opened much to Yushi's surprise. Jinse was standing just off to the side of the doorway, not even bothering to look up from the book he was casually flipping through. What really had Yushi speechless was the fact Jinse was wearing the robe that he lent Xueye. When Yushi didn't move from the spot he was briefly stunned, Jinse finally looked up.
"What? I would have figured you noticed you aren't the only one with sensitive hearing," Jinse shrugged.
"Why are you wearing that?" Yushi grumbled.
"What? This?" Jinse looked down at the dark blue robe. He could have changed by now since his own clothes had long since dried but he'd been so taken by how soaked in Xueye's scent it was that he hadn't bothered. "Ah, well I went out in the rain yesterday to fetch food to make for Xueye. He insisted I wear this so I didn't catch a cold. Not that I would, but he insisted." Jinse shrugged. "What's it matter anyways? Get in here already, you're letting the cold in." Jinse returned to looking at the book in hand as he walked further in. "He's still asleep last I checked but I'm sure he'll be happy to see you here when he wakes."
"Has he been alright?" Yushi tried to tamper his annoyance as he closed the door behind him.
"He's had his moments…" Jinse closed the book with a sigh. "Mostly it is tied with his anxieties like we initially thought so hopefully we can send him off in a great mood, yeah?"
"That is the hope," Yushi nodded, his softer smile shifting to something a little more teasing. "You think you can behave?"
"Can you?" Jinse jabbed back. Jinse chuckled at the mild frustration that flickered on Yushi's face. "Sorry, can't resist sometimes. I'll try not to harass you too much once he's awake. Before that, no promises."
"Why do you feel the need to irritate me so?" Yushi grumbled softly as he sat across the small table Jinse was pacing near.
"Same reason we both like teasing Xueye," Jinse shrugged. "Though, for him it's more cute than amusing but you it's the other way around. Nothing malicious I assure you. The fact you bite back is all the more fun."
"Here's hoping it remains figurative," Yushi huffed.
"Still worried about that?" Jinse closed the book and sat across the table. "It's my own fault for pushing you so far. I promise no one will enter again until I know for certain you have your wits about you. I had a chat with Maque about the barrier talismans he used and he gave me some. While just like before we can give Shizhe the counter we just have to ensure she knows to only use it in an emergency. We can hold off for a couple days though. I'd rather not make her or the doctor angry at me for pushing you too much."
"About that," Yushi placed his hand over his shoulder, "Aside from this one, pretty much all the bruises are gone and I really don't think it was the doctor's treatment."
"Hmm, interesting," Jinse raised a brow. "Some of our kind can heal quickly. It comes with the powerful flow of qi and mastery of it. Your kind especially has a lot innately so I wouldn't be surprised if it comes even without control over it. For me it didn't manifest right away either. Still, even immortals can retain wounds that can be fatal so know that it doesn't make you invincible."
"The persistent ache is a testament to that," Yushi grumbled. "I was just curious if you could confirm what I was suspecting, else I would have asked Shizhe to look into it."
"She'll still likely know more about dragons than I but when it comes to something that's generalized for divine beasts as a whole then I may know, at the very least by personal experience." Jinse's hand wandered over the book he set down. Before he knew it he opened it again and was lazily flipping through it again. It was the one Wuye said he would bring and while Jinse had yet to find a single page he could decipher himself, yet he kept looking through it anyways. Suffice to say it would be a worthy distraction for a little while.
Yushi glanced at the pages and narrowed his eyes trying to read it. While the script was similar to that of Meihuan, none of it was readable, yet at the same time there was something strangely familiar about that writing. "Is that in some other language?"
"Sort of," Jinse hummed softly. "I think it's more like a code but I've yet to figure out any semblance of a pattern. I've only had it for a few hours though. Apparently Maque and his acquaintances couldn't figure it out and I could use a distraction during my free time while Xueye is away. I know nothing will come of it until I research a bit, but I keep hoping something will jump out at me."
"That script reminds me of something but I can't quite place it," Yushi narrowed his eyes trying to think where exactly he'd seen it. "Perhaps Shizhe's library might have something?"
"I'll ask later if she knows where to start," Jinse beamed at the prospect of a lead even if it was slim.
"What is it supposed to be? Do you even know?" Yushi was also growing curious as to the origins of it.
"Maque mentioned it belonged to a master from his sect from quite some time ago," Jinse ran his hand along the pages. "It's remarkably well preserved for its age. The materials aren't ordinary and likely hidden in this code is the spell that kept it in perfect shape. I'm so eager to figure out what secrets it may hold."
"He really didn't have any insight?" Yushi asked.
"It was from a different time," Jinse shrugged. "Some masters like to keep their secrets, but it seems this one took the secret to this code to their grave. I just hope it really is their techniques and not some silly personal journal."
"Speaking from experience?" Yushi chuckled at the thought.
"At least twice," Jinse rolled his eyes at the memory. "Thankfully one was full of useful knowledge. It was from an adventurer. It had all sorts of information on beasts they've hunted, areas they've been and even treasures I hadn't known about back then. It came in handy when I came across one such treasure. It's why I value knowledge, you never know when it comes in handy. Even if I don't know what can help him now…"
Yushi could see the deep helplessness when it came to what currently plagued Xueye. It very much echoed his own feelings on the matter. The court had long since been lacking in counters to mystical forces, even if Shizhe's knowledge on such matters was slowly expanding they really needed someone to rely on for such matters. He was hesitant to reach out to just anyone, many sought power in this country. For now they would just have to rely on Jinse and Maque.
"It's not as though you could have predicted something like this. They'll find a solution," Yushi said, in as much of a reassurance for Jinse as he did for himself. "If not, then rest assured it won't matter what it takes, we will find a solution."
"Wouldn't that be an abuse of your power?" Jinse teased but it was a relief to hear that Yushi would also stop at nothing to ensure Xueye's safety.
"Perhaps, but what's the use of it if I can't protect those I care for?" Yushi shrugged. "Though, Shizhe seemed quite confident in this venture of theirs. So I doubt it will come to that."
"Can she really see that far ahead already?" Jinse raised a brow. "I hope she isn't just trying to keep you at ease by saying that."
"It's a possibility," Yushi shook his head. "Even so, I'd like to believe in her words. Perhaps, in the meantime we can still try and search for some knowledge that may help."
"I was considering it," Jinse flashed a sad little grin. "I'll likely be in all sorts of archives and libraries anyways. I should have looked into those damned ruins in the first place. I never thought something like this would happen."
"I'm sure it's a given for them to investigate it first, but you did express as such to Maque, yes?" Yushi couldn't help but ask.
"I did inform him of all the details I was able to recall," Jinse nodded. "I was quite concerned for Xueye at the time so what else was in the bottom of that pit is fuzzy. It's been years, hopefully it hasn't been cleaned out and they find what they need quickly."
"It would be nice if they can return quickly," Yushi chuckled weakly. A faint shuffling from Xueye's room caught his attention and Yushi's smile softened. "Sounds like someone is waking up."
"Knowing him, it'll be a bit before he comes out," Jinse stood up and waved for Yushi to follow. "Come help me prepare breakfast for him."
"Alright," Yushi was more than happy to do something else for Xueye before he had to leave. Talking with Jinse in Xueye's comforting presence and now doing something for Xueye's sake, something was settling into place. It was as though this was supposed to be how they interacted. That strange resistance to Jinse's presence wasn't nearly as present, at least it was easy to ignore. Perhaps it was knowing a little more about Jinse or even seeing him in a calmer light that was helping to quell that part of him that wanted nothing more than to fight him again.
It wasn't too long before Xueye came shuffling out, rubbing his tired eyes. He caught sight of the two of them in the kitchen and he couldn't help but smile, melting at the warm sight of the two of them flitting about his kitchen. The faint chill he felt upon getting up and worrying about the day ahead was quickly fading. It filled his chest with a burning hope that this wouldn't be the only time he saw this.
"Take it easy a while longer, we'll be done in a bit." Jinse said in such a sweet, cheery tone.
"It's a pleasant surprise to see you two working so diligently," Xueye beamed as he sat at the table to watch them work.
"Is it really a surprise when we just want to take care of you?" Yushi chuckled lightly as he brought over some tea. "Let it steep just a little longer, okay?"
"Okay," Xueye nodded with the tenderest of smiles. Yushi couldn't help but reach out and gently run his knuckles across Xueye's cheek. It was a relief to find that Xueye was perfectly warm.
"Shujing, I'm not done with you," Jinse tried to keep his voice light but Yushi could hear the faint tension in his voice. He couldn't help but find a little amusement in getting a rise out of Jinse still.
"Yes, yes," Yushi rejoined Jinse in the kitchen, leaving Xueye to grow more flustered at the affectionate display.
Xueye found himself wanting just this fleeting moment. It was so simple, yet so sweet. Even if it was only this calm, domestic moment between the three of them, it was enough for Xueye. He would miss moments like this while he was away.
"Are you enjoying ordering me around?" Yushi asked.
"A little," Jinse snickered. "I'm surprised you are being so obedient."
"Don't get used to it," Yushi rolled his eyes, despite his words there was none of the usual bite in them compared to their previous interactions. "It's only because this is for Xueye."
"I can still enjoy it while it lasts," Jinse smirked.
Xueye couldn't help but giggle quietly to himself. He'd always felt a little concerned when it came to them interacting. Jinse was always quick to irritate anyone new in Xueye's life and, at first, Yushi seemed so prone to fall victim to his provocation and teasing. It didn't escape Xueye's notice at how different it was now. Jinse wasn't as harsh about it, much less antagonizing and more teasing the way he would tease Xueye or even Xinhua. Yushi was also better at taking it in stride now and there was no longer the visible tension Xueye was used to seeing in the last few times all three of them spent time together.
Xueye wasn't sure what really changed between them but it made him happy to see them getting along in their own way. It left him feeling more content than he had been in a long time. Even when Yushi glanced over at him and caught him staring, Xueye couldn't help but smile brighter.
"When you finish with that, you can take it with you and go join him," Jinse relented with a soft smile. He didn't need much more assistance anyways and given that Yushi slept most of yesterday he thought it best to let them have a little time as he finished up making food for them.
"You sure?" Yushi asked as he finished slicing the apricots.
"You'll just get in the way now," Jinse shrugged. He gently nudged Yushi's arm, "Get what time you can with him."
"Thanks," Yushi said softly with a tender smile. Jinse's own smile softened a little in response. Yushi drifted over to the table and sat next to Xueye. "You seem to be doing much better today."
"I feel great," Xueye beamed. "It's a shame we don't have much time today but I'm very happy you are here. I admit I was a little worried if you would be feeling up to seeing me off."
"You should know that I wouldn't miss the chance to spend a little more time with you," Yushi's expression was filled with such a sweet fondness that Xueye still wasn't quite used to, however today he wanted to enjoy it.
"I'm glad," Xueye said with the faintest of flush and the sweetest smile. "I admit, I don't think I've been quite this happy in a while. It makes facing this trip much less nerve-wracking."
"That's what I was hoping for," Yushi sighed in relief. "Even if we can't join you, it's wonderful to be able to do that much for you. I couldn't ask for more."
"You could, but you made your stance clear on that," Xueye giggled. "I'll be sure to pester you about it when I return."
"As if anything you do could really pester me," Yushi chuckled.
"Hmm, now you make me want to find out if I can," Xueye smirked. "Jinse seems to know how to get under your skin. Perhaps I just need to ask him."
"I'm afraid coming from you, I would find the same tactics more adorable than anything," Yushi shrugged.
"How unfair," Xueye pouted a little.
"I won't stop you from trying to find out," Yushi teased.
"Suddenly I'm not sure I want to anymore," Xueye huffed.
"Awe, come now, I'd love to see that more playful side of you," Yushi leaned his head in his hand. "I can pretend to be bothered, if it makes you feel better."
"I don't think it would, but I appreciate the sentiment," Xueye grumbled in defeat.
"What's so appealing about me being annoyed with you, hmm?" Yushi couldn't help but pry a little.
"You always find it cute when I get all upset, right?" Xueye shrugged.
"People usually find me intimidating when I'm irritated or annoyed," Yushi shook his head. "You sure you want to risk that?"
"I think I could handle it," Xueye smirked with confidence.
"Then try, we'll see if you regret it later," Yushi said in a low teasing voice.
"I-I'll try, eventually…" Xueye felt a surge of heat in his cheeks. Yushi's voice has been affecting him so easily lately. Xueye knew this reaction was exactly what he wanted given the smug shift in Yushi's expression. Xueye didn't know how he'd ever accomplish this task given how he was so wrapped around Yushi's finger. "Just forget it for now!"
Yushi just chuckled softly as he leaned back in his seat. "By the way, care to bring me something back from your trip? Could be something small and I'll cherish it all the same."
"Absolutely!" Xueye lit up. He'd already been considering it but since Yushi asked he was even more excited to. "I'd love nothing more!"
"Me too, if you don't mind," Jinse said as he set down a plate of thin rolled omelettes with mixed greens and another of a few scallion pancakes.
"I would think that would be a given," Xueye giggled. "You both deserve something for the care you've shown me so it's the least I could do."
"We take care of you because we want to, not because we expect anything," Jinse huffed as he sat down.
"That's what I keep telling him," Yushi shrugged.
"All the more reason you deserve something!" Xueye stated resolutely. "It's because you two never want anything in return that I want to give you something. So stop trying to change my mind!"
"Do as you like," Yushi flashed a slightly defeated smile.
"Just don't fret about it," Jinse huffed. "There's no need to rush such things."
"He's right," Yushi nodded. "But a little souvenir from your trip would be a perfect opportunity, right?"
"Yes!" Xueye nodded eagerly.
"Did you finish getting everything ready for your trip?" Yushi asked.
"Mmhmm," Xueye hummed with a nod. "I would like to think I packed on the lighter side but spare clothing for additional warmth may have countered that. Vual's spring is a lot like our coldest winters. I don't doubt the mantle you gave me will do wonders, I figured just in case."
"When he asked if it was too much, I did tell him that he should keep it all anyways," Jinse stated. "I'm sure the doctor would prefer it at least."
"I don't doubt that," Yushi chuckled. "Besides, it'll be better to be a little over prepared rather than under."
"Usually what I prefer, anyways," Xueye nodded with a smile. "I just didn't want to bring too much, but since we aren't sure how long we'll be away it's hard not to want to bring extra. In a pinch I can always buy something if I find myself in need of something."
"Doesn't the company operate out of the city you are heading to?" Jinse hummed thoughtfully. "Couldn't you just get anything from them?"
"Sure, but I would kind of like to bring back some stuff from Vual specifically for myself as well," Xueye looked rather excited over the thought. "Before moving in here and a bit in the process of moving much of what I brought back was damaged, so it would be nice to have a bit more from there again."
"You should," Yushi couldn't help but feel so delighted that Xueye was going to get something for himself for once. "With the company there it may be easier to ship things back."
"That's true, but I don't think I will get quite that much… Well maybe…" Xueye shrugged. "I suppose it depends on what I find."
"Consider it a little treat for all you have been going through," Jinse adored seeing him considering himself for once as well. "So don't hold back because you deserve it."
"Since you both insist," Xueye giggled sweetly.
Yushi was starting to understand what Xinhua's words meant. When they first met Xueye was so against getting things for himself Yushi had to buy him something he showed interest in. Now he was rather open to the idea with Yushi and Jinse urging him to do so. Xueye really was susceptible to suggestion if it came from both himself and Jinse. While they always mean well and really are just trying to get Xueye to better himself, Yushi understood why she was concerned. Even if it was for a different reason they discussed, at its core having such sway over him could prove dangerous were it in someone else's hands.
"I probably should get ready for the day," Xueye said with a sigh that was somewhere between content and disappointment, with the mournful thought of disturbing the peaceful moment he was enjoying so much. Part of him wished this moment could last a while longer but he also didn't want to keep anyone waiting. Even if it was still early enough in the morning he didn't want to delay their departure when the expedition was for him. "Best to be early for this sort of thing anyways…"
"I suppose you aren't wrong," Jinse closed his eyes, also feeling the same sense of dismay. "Still, no need to rush. Even if you take your time now we'll get there quite early."
"Even if you are feeling better, there's no need to push yourself," Yushi reaffirmed with a gentle smile.
"I know," Xueye nodded. "I figure it best to start now so I can take it slow if I need to, since it comes and goes. I'm trying to look forward to this and you've both certainly helped by giving me ideas but it may be hard to keep the nerves at bay the whole time."
"Well we aren't going anywhere if you need us to distract you more," Jinse smirked, however despite acting coy in the way he usually does when he teases, even Xueye could tell there was a softness to his words. It was making Xueye's heart flutter a little.
"I'll keep that in mind," Xueye giggled, quickly turning away to hide the flush in his cheeks.