[ instantly, xie lian feels a quiet pull of fondness at his heart. ]

A third path is a dangerous path; but with an attitude like that, it is not one that is impossible to traverse. At least... I have never felt that way.

[ as hikaru falls silent, xie lian does too. his attention shifts back to the altar, again, and he seems to be considering saying a prayer, when hikaru says something that surprises him.

there's a beat. his mouth curls a little, at the corner. san lang... he really does know everything. it's too impressive. sometimes, xie lian wonders...

but that would be impossible.

he nods, instead, closing his eyes. ] It is. You are correct.