[Video; UN: heavenly four seasons]

[eternallywandering]

[He sits before a mirror, smoothing his hair into a tight top-knot. His expression is cold. Blank. A bottle of something strong - liquor most likely - sits on the table before him, half-full. Pushing himself onto his feet, Zishu rises and takes another, smaller, bottle from his robes, downing the contents in one swig.]

Welcome to all of the new faces. I must ask, shamefully, if any healers have arrived since my last request?

My name is Zhou Zishu and should you find yourself in danger, please feel free to call upon me. I will not fail you.

Comments

[binghua]

I wasn't trying to change your opinion. Fear not!

[As they stand there, Xingchen gently captures one of Zhou Zishu's hands between his again, once more trying to rub some warmth into the cool skin.]

Are you in any pain?

[eternallywandering]

[Zishu smiles softly and places a kiss against Xingchen's forehead. Why should he stop himself? He is glad the daozhang came to visit him.]

No more than usual. But I would rather not deteriorate.

[binghua]

[The more time he spends with Zhou Zishu, the easier it is to accept these little bouts of affection. It's nice, too, to be so comfortable with someone again in this physical sense. Not intimate, like he had been with Xue Yang, but just...there and present and not alone. Someone he can touch and help ground himself because of it.]

Of course not. You will tell me if it gets to be too much?

[eternallywandering]

[No, Xingchen isn't alone. He just has to reach out his hand or raise his voice and Zishu will come to him. Hadn't they found each other even in death?]

What will you do then? [All he sees is pain for Xingchen if he admits that.] I'm choosing how to spend my time. I just need enough help to...stay strong enough.

[binghua]

Then I will help in any way I can.

[He keeps rubbing warmth into Zhou Zishu's hand, as if this conversation isn't something with which to argue.]

I may not be able to heal you or make things much better when it comes to your body, but I can offer small comforts. Food, a blanket, conversation...any of it. You do not have to suffer alone needlessly.

[eternallywandering]

I believe you. [He exhales and smiles at the effort. Bringing one of Xingchen's hands to his chest, he bows his head.] I'm very blessed to have your companionship. It does me more good than you realize. If I reach my limit, I will let you know. I'm sure you can help me.

[binghua]

[Ever pliant in the hands of those he trusts, Xingchen lets Zhou Zishu move him as he will. But he also breathes a little easier at the reassurance. Good.

Of course, whether or not Zhou Zishu actually follows through is another matter entirely.]

See? I told you I was stubborn.

[eternallywandering]

[Cute. Impossibly, unfairly cute. Zishu can't stop himself from beaming, ignoring how exhausted he feels. No, exhausted isn't the right word. Hollow would be better. Like his inner fire has been blown out.]

I give up. Your stubbornness has conquered me.

[binghua]

[He pats Zhou Zishu's chest gently a few times in acknowledgment and general companionship.]

Are you hungry? I think I can grab something from the kitchen without too much trouble.