He shakes his head, waving a hand dismissively. "Only tired," he says again. "And I should be the one apologizing, Ninth. I was not able to fulfill my part of the ritual as you asked."

As much as Lan Zhan insisted Wei Wuxian was not to blame, it still pricks at him, as if he cannot stop prodding a bruise on his arm. He should have done better. He should have succeeded in the help he offered.

"I am sorry."