[of what little time he has spent with alina, a part of xichen is not surprised by the fact she has not moved. if faced with the same order, he would not have run.
he had once, a long time ago. he'd fled with sacred texts from a home that was burning and lived with the regret, even if he knew that it was his uncle's orders that ensure the sect's survival. it is a matter of pride, of knowing one could have done more. if he'd stayed, after all, perhaps the worst of it would have been that he was captured. then he would not have met meng yao again, would not have inadvertently brought so much death into their world.
so xichen understands when alina moves instead to shoot, poor shot that it is. it is enough, enough time that he can draw more air or even think of next steps. the song shifts, subtly and those still in place are sent back by another burst of light but this time it swirls around and seems to come in the same direction as the awning alina hit. the group is knocked down as xichen changes the tune, able to gather his thoughts and breath.
they're disoriented from the sound of it, unsure where to search between their improvised teamwork.
tucked in the alcove, he lowers his flute.] We need to move. Are you able to run? [because if not, she'll find him sweeping her up to jump across the rooftops to safety.]
no subject
he had once, a long time ago. he'd fled with sacred texts from a home that was burning and lived with the regret, even if he knew that it was his uncle's orders that ensure the sect's survival. it is a matter of pride, of knowing one could have done more. if he'd stayed, after all, perhaps the worst of it would have been that he was captured. then he would not have met meng yao again, would not have inadvertently brought so much death into their world.
so xichen understands when alina moves instead to shoot, poor shot that it is. it is enough, enough time that he can draw more air or even think of next steps. the song shifts, subtly and those still in place are sent back by another burst of light but this time it swirls around and seems to come in the same direction as the awning alina hit. the group is knocked down as xichen changes the tune, able to gather his thoughts and breath.
they're disoriented from the sound of it, unsure where to search between their improvised teamwork.
tucked in the alcove, he lowers his flute.] We need to move. Are you able to run? [because if not, she'll find him sweeping her up to jump across the rooftops to safety.]