[ If Xue Yang speaks the truth, there should be pride. Unfortunately, it's also true that the past can never be undone. How many times did he wish for Zichen's clan to be revived while knowing it could never happen, not in a safe or humane way? They both have to live with the burden of their pasts.

If he's doing good here? Now? Would it be better to have him dead than to have those he could help receive his aid?

He'd lied to him for years. Xue Yang didn't confess his identity before they met here. In a twisted, likely too-empathetic way, Xingchen understands. He was injured, needed aid, and assumed he would be turned away should his name be known. Yet, he didn't leave after, but he also made no move to harm him or A-Qing, either. Instead, he'd been their partner. Xue Yang claims Xingchen showed him kindness he hadn't known before. Wasn't it human to want to receive that kindness?

Still shaking, he finally sits back down. It's a complicated story. ]

I ask that you don't lie to me again. Trust isn't something that can be repaired so easily once it's broken.

[ Xue Yang said he would do anything. These are the only way Xingchen can see for them to move forward. ]

You've been doing well not to hurt anyone, but we've done things we can't undo. It won't be penance, but we can do good in this world. Fight by my side.

[ Even here, Xingchen will continue to help people. ]

If you truly will do anything, that's what I ask. In return, I promise to keep giving kindness even now that I know who you are.