The only way he can cope with the constant touch is to partially meditate, mentally running through a calming breathing exercise. His fingers twitch then still, his expression placid as Jin Guangyao holds his hand under what feels like a pretence.

"If you tell the truth, there will be no misunderstanding."

Keeping his breathing steady, Xichen looks at him intently and waits to see if he will find a face lifted to him or not when asked this mysterious question.