(embarrassed by xiao's embarrassment, lessa can't look him in the eye. at least his body is easy to manoeuvre, light and unresisting. how gentlemanly of him, lessa thinks. he might've deserved it if he had gotten struck in the head with a wooden pole.

xiao's forearm receives gratitude in the form of a very gentle hand. it lingers briefly before it's retracted altogether.)

I do not pray at the shrines. It feels as though they were built by the hands of Gods. (his dirty hand comes up to cover one side of his mouth. there is no one else around.) Just between you and me, young man, it is very vain behaviour... Shrines are meant to be made by mortals as a symbol of dedication to their faith. As gifts.

Of course, I say all of this knowing that I am no better. I was not following you, but I was listening in on your prayer.

(this regret........)

Interrupting you had not been my intention.