There is a pile of debris ahead blocking the road and he steps as lightly as he can, no doubt jarring Wei Ying as he picks his way up and over. They are very exposed like this but they must reach the camp soon as the air only grows colder as the day stretches and Wei Ying is already icy.

"Little Apple would bray and attract every demon," he huffs, imagining Wei Ying far too easily sacrificing himself for a donkey. His fingers clench harder around Wei Ying's knee and shoulder as his muscles try and spasm. He can do this, he is certain they are not far and he will not force Wei Ying to endure another round of lowering and lifting.