( We yet have me. But then, they are but two men, and in these lake wander dozens. Reinforcements cannot harm or worsen their advance. A stiff nod, ill negotiated. He accepts, grip on Bichen hardened, readied to retaliate, should the listlessness of the men before him retire in the face of engagement.

His walk is slow, if not crawled, light-footed. With him shift waves of sand and decay, and he does not ask himself how much is ash, how much is bone, where the twain yet meet. Does not look back, past waving Xie Lian forward.

At the rim of the lake, he draws Bichen to the side, cutting a barrier before Xie Lian. Let him protected, first and foremost. )

Call to them.

( ...no one in rightful mind would ever entertain Lan Wangji as the better speaker or conversationalist. Their chance here is Xie Lian.

Heavens be wise, kind and merciful. )