[His first real opinion about the stranger is that the young man enjoys speaking far too much. Withholding a weary sigh, he drives away the uncharitable thought. There’s no real opportunity to explain that the spear he’s used to carrying on his person did not arrive with him in this dimension, so he allows that thread to fade without defending himself. The wooden pole, though too light and flimsy for extended use in combat, will serve his purposes well enough until he can secure a more worthy weapon. Xiao refuses to admit that part of his need for the pole in the first place was to fill the void left by the absence of Rex Lapis’ gift. Where he (guiltily) does not miss his mask, the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear has seen him safely through the millennia.]
Hm.
[Xiao takes a moment to center himself before following suit, pushing away from the railing on wobbly feet. Only sheer stubbornness and pride keep him upright. When he slows to a stop, he eyes Childe dubiously before doing as instructed. Perhaps unsurprisingly, “marching” on ice is easier for him to manage than skating. Though he’s never taken part in any formal military troop, his knees rise high in the air—enough to meet the approval from any proper drill sergeant. Each step helps him learn where to balance his weight on his skates with increasing confidence.]
Xiao, [he says eventually, though he does not return the interest (yet) in asking for the young man’s name.] Who taught you to “march” on ice? Your community?
[“Community” sure is a strange way to ask if Childe’s family taught him.]
points and laughs
Hm.
[Xiao takes a moment to center himself before following suit, pushing away from the railing on wobbly feet. Only sheer stubbornness and pride keep him upright. When he slows to a stop, he eyes Childe dubiously before doing as instructed. Perhaps unsurprisingly, “marching” on ice is easier for him to manage than skating. Though he’s never taken part in any formal military troop, his knees rise high in the air—enough to meet the approval from any proper drill sergeant. Each step helps him learn where to balance his weight on his skates with increasing confidence.]
Xiao, [he says eventually, though he does not return the interest (yet) in asking for the young man’s name.] Who taught you to “march” on ice? Your community?
[“Community” sure is a strange way to ask if Childe’s family taught him.]