{Video; UN: gambler}

[thescorpionking]

I have searched as best as I am able... {Which isn't a lot considering his current state.} I wish to order a pipa since mine was left behind. It will be some time before I am able to play again, but I don't expect it to be an easy project for a luthier.

{The title sounds funny on his tongue and his nose wrinkles faintly.}

For those who do not know, a pipa is a stringed instrument.

{And they are amazing.}

Comments

[lordofrebirth]

[He looks at him then looks away. He's still getting used to people being so happy about him doing things like this and how good it feels.]

It is. You can call on me when you have the instrument and can play again.

[thescorpionking]

I won't forget. {He hesitates.} You are welcome to call me Xie or Scorpion. What should I call you?

[lordofrebirth]

I am Xue Qianxun. I will remember your name, Xie.

[thescorpionking]

My Lord, I am forever in your debt.

[lordofrebirth]

I am trying not to collect debts here. You are free of it in my eyes.

[thescorpionking]

I can understand being free. Then I hope you count me as a friend and ally.

[lordofrebirth]

[Another...friend. It feels good. He looks to him then nods.]

I will allow you to consider me the same.

[thescorpionking]

{How can he dislike anyone who plays a pipa too? Or anyone who comes in a flash to heal him when he deserves the pain and disability of his injuries?}

I hope we can perform together soon.

[lordofrebirth]

[There's one moment of hesitation before he speaks again.]

My pipa is here. I will play with you when you are ready.

[thescorpionking]

I'm relieved yours followed. Mine is safe, I believe, though I don't know for how long.

{Someone will surely notice his tie to the poor thing and demolish it.}

[lordofrebirth]

It did not arrive when I did but came later.

[He turns to look at him more at the mention of Xie's being in danger though.]

Why is there risk of it being in danger?

[thescorpionking]

Then there is hope I will see mine again!

{His pretty scorpion pipa is one of a kind.}

My reputation is...poor. I fear an enemy encountering it.

[lordofrebirth]

I see.

[He considers for a moment before giving a flick of his hand and summoning a small paper to his palm.]

Slide this inside of it. It will protect anyone from causing it violence of any kind.

[thescorpionking]

{He takes the paper delicately and peers down at it.}

I shall, of course, if it arrives. Of course if it is with me, I will protect it.

[lordofrebirth]

I believe you.

[He looks away again now. He's still getting used to this being a nice person thing.]

Regain your strength. Call when you can play your instrument.

[thescorpionking]

Be safe in the meantime. {Are his words silly? Maybe, but they are friends.} Make sure your pipa doesn't miss you.

[lordofrebirth]

[He pauses a moment then nods.]

It will not. One day you will see why.

[With that he turns and departs.]

[thescorpionking]

{He blinks at those ominous words, tilting his head. Huh. What did that mean? But he rubs his legs and smiles to himself. No matter what his new friend meant, Xie is grateful to him.}