They'll walk it together. It's not always easy even for Xingchen, but it's not supposed to be. He keeps his attention on the niggle of healing energy he's learned to use and is working to strengthen it, Xiu appears on Xingchen's shoulders to peer at Xue Yang, nose twitching at him. Supervising.

She's watching you, Xue Yang.

Xingchen blinks at him, wondering at that sigh and how the other leans closer. But doesn't protest, only studies him a moment. Not distrustful. Not expecting a strike or for any answer to be used against him.

"...I chose to leave...but yes." He draws in a little breath, smile faint. "It is better to find someone to walk with when it gets too much."