( perhaps it might be a bit premature to use the term 'friend' by traditional standards, but is that not what they are? 'allies' implies that they mutually benefit from the relationship for more practical reasons - and perhaps there are practical benefits as well (like fetching one another from bug jail, for example), but that's hardly xingchen's motivation in speaking with him. in inviting him back to his home to convalesce for the evening in peace and quiet, perhaps with tea or whatever else he might be able to stomach. )

It is, ( he agrees with a little nod. and though he considers leaving it there, he finds himself confessing, ) I've come to realize that those whose monstrous form is more consistent tend to struggle with our nightly shifts. As if such a thing is more horrifying simply because it happens so quickly, so frequently. ( which is perhaps a forewarning to his newfound fellow were- not to shift in front of others too flippantly, but underneath that, it's also a bit of commiseration. )