[ Unlike the other one... there's a warmth and the comfort that comes with those arms that returned his embrace. Aether was warm, and real, so that ice cold feeling that had welled up in his chest finally started to dissipate. He didn't want to really move at the moment, catching that head shake but feeling almost drained after that short exchange before. ]

I... [ The words caught in his throat, and Xiao exhaled a soft breath. ] You're welcome. What I did... it didn't feel like saving. Not this time..

[ A quiet admittance, though deep down it feels like it tied back to his 'true' nature as a yaksha. A being who was good at slaughtering, who had to do so to someone he never wanted to see harmed. ]

What matters is you're alright. [ A pause. ] Would you mind... if I was to accompany you to ensure you are taken care of?