"A-Xiang," he breathes out as he pulls her into his arms. The reunion with Qianqiao hadn't been quite as emotional, but Qianqiao hadn't arrived on the verge of death, either. It felt good to have them both back, but his pressing worry was for Gu Xiang's condition.

When he finally pulls back, he presses a hand to her cheek and frowns. Whatever she's going through hasn't happened to him yet. He knows that much is true. But there's something diminished about her that doesn't seem borne of any physical pain.

"How are you feeling? Can you move?"