Begging for punishment. The position is so familiar it has him closing his eyes and turning his head away, lips pressing tightly together.

He knows what he should do. He should shove this traitor away and drive Baxia through his chest.

But...is that still the right thing? Hands clutch desperately at him, clinging tight. A horrified voice wonders at himself.

...And he feels himself relent. Just a little. Just enough. Enough that Baxia slowly lifts, then settles angrily at his back.

"Swear yourself to me again," he decides, voice sharp. "We will see if we can save you. Never lie or deceive me or Huaisang again."