[ Hands feel along the hilt of the sword, his head shaking. That's impossible. This is impossible. This has gone from some kind of dream to a nightmare. The voice belongs to a precious friend, but it's saying those cruel words.

The sword falls as Xingchen stands, his head shaking. This is still impossible. They've spent years together. They built a life together. ]

That's impossible. Xue Yang... He wouldn't have shown me that kindness.

[ He hates them. ]

He wouldn't have shown Zichen that kindness. He...You?

[ Xingchen isn't weak of heart, but this is one area in which he falters. ]