[Buoyed by the other man, Xiao is guided across the ice in a smooth, stable fashion that would almost be enjoyable—if he were able to skate so independently. It isn’t that he resents the assistance; though chagrined by his own foolishness, the yaksha can appreciate being tutored by someone obviously adept in the art. But Xiao has spent so many centuries now working alone, peerless in Liyue (with the exception of his god) as a vanquisher of evil. The point is…it’s been a damn long time since he’s needed to ask for help.

He reaches out to grasp the railing in relief, glad to not be clinging to the stranger so pathetically. That said, he refuses to relinquish his hold on the pole, a determined pinch of his brow revealing itself.]

I’ll continue with it, [he insists, taking a moment to fix his grip on the makeshift armament.] I must. If my balance is offset by it, it’s due to muscle memory from normally wielding something heavier. I just need time to adjust.

[And indeed, the way that Xiao holds the pole does speak of familiarity with weapons of similar dimensions. Where they idle at the rail, his stance is comfortable—somehow making the act of holding a pole while skating look natural for all that its hollowed weight is throwing him off.]

You’re quite good at this. [Taking his hand off the railing briefly, he gestures at the rink.] Do you have other advice?