By the time Xiao Xingchen arrives, Xue Yang is likely out of earshot. If only he could have been faster, or maybe he should have charged through all the vines and traps without any care.

After all, he knew that Song Lan had needed him. Why did he delay? Why, why--

He doesn't dare to look. Even if he should recognize the consequences of his actions, he would not cause any more damage to his friend's dignity.

Wrapping an arm around Song Lan to keep him steady, he raises Shuanghua to slice the vines and free him. At least that's the place they should start first. This is no time to be caught up in his own feelings about this, when Song Lan has much more to deal with...