Justice likely will end with a death sentence if no one interferes. But someone will. Xue Yang knows he is needed and as long as he is needed, his life is safe.

His guard might stay raised, yet his body has something else in mind. He feels himself relax. Physically. Xingchen has nice hands and it doesn't take him long to decide to enjoy this pampering.

"I noticed. But your hair shines." like silk. Running his fingers through it won't be so bad at all - and he'll show Xingchen that he's not all sharp edges. Maybe.

Sitting on a stool, making sure his towel doesn't slip, he bends forward to make Xingchen's task easier.

"You're making such a fuss!" not that he minds, "Then I'll have to heal, won't I."