[the fluid turns on, off, and then on again. the young man in the video looks uncertain as he turns his head to the side, mouth opening as if to speak to someone off-screen.

he decides against it, pursing his lips as he faces forward again. 'faces' but does not 'look'. because a ribbon as white as his robes completely covers his eyes.

there are also braids and flowers in his hair. ]

I was told that if I speak, I may be heard. I'm Xiao Xingchen. I had companions that may or may not have ended up here as well, a funny man and a young blind girl. If anyone comes across her, please be kind. She's mischievous, but I promise I'll have her return anything that she's stolen from you.

A-Qing, who is clever and might already be listening. Please be on your best behavior until brother reunites with you.

[that's all he really needs to say, but... after a moment a smile touches his lips.]

The flowers smell different here. The birds sound different. But there are flowers and birds. The people have been kind, and they're often not to a blind man. I believe this must be a good place where we've ended up.

[how long can this optimism last, start the clock.]