[The space is welcome, if only for letting him unravel some of the tension he wasn't aware had climbed up his spine. Save for the escalation... it really had been a very exhilarating moment, and he can feel the slight heat to his face and neck left behind from it all. It's a shame.

He gives the apology its time and attention, hand idling against the edge of the scarf closest to his mouth as though he might be able to hide behind it. He lets it sit, lets it sit more, before finally letting out another sigh.]

Intentions or otherwise, your actions will speak louder. I will be the judge of that.

[So apology sort of... accepted. So long as Jing Yuan shows he means it? Maybe he can try that again, on a day that isn't quite so cold and poisonous.

...

He clears his throat, pulling his hood further over his head as he motions for Jing Yuan to follow him.]

Quickly, then. I'd rather not let this forest play any more tricks on our hearts.

You wanted to talk about your student, right? What is it that you teach?