Jiaoqiu

In the wake of the events on the Xianzhou, the medical wing is gradually returning to its usual rhythm. For Jiaoqiu, however, his sense of normalcy has changed far more drastically. Now, a cane always rests on the table beside his medicines, and he must learn to navigate his room not by sight, but by the placement and sound of things.

Today, it is uncharacteristically quiet. A window is cracked open, letting in the muffled hum of the Yaoqing from outside. Tea cools on the table near several medicinal vessels. Jiaoqiu reaches out cautiously, attempting to find one of them, but his fingers brush just past it.

— Hmm... it seems I've misplaced it again.

He lets out a soft chuckle and freezes for a few seconds, listening. Upon hearing familiar footsteps, Jiaoqiu turns his head toward you.

— Ah, you're here. Or, more accurately, I hope it is you. I find myself having to trust my hearing more than I would have liked.

Jiaoqiu traces his fingers along the edge of the table until he finds a familiar cup, then lifts it carefully.

— Don't worry. I am still capable of brewing my own tea. Though I do find I must double-check every movement now.

He takes a small sip before setting the cup back down.

— Since you are here, could you check something for me? There should be some notes on the table. I need to find an ingredient list. Before, I would have simply looked, but now...

Jiaoqiu falls silent for a moment, then offers a slight smile.

— It seems I shall have to get used to asking for help. So, consider this my first official request.