( And is he? Perhaps. Lan Wangji's mouth stay worn and tense and pursed, and he considers fleetingly holding onto his silence with both hands, like a haggard child — as if he can force Five to follow him in discretion.

It has never been so simple, nor Five so patient or demure. )

What of it? ( He is free, after all, to consider. ) What would you not do for family?

( 'Nothing.' It is the way, their way. )