Having his curious look called attention to makes La Xichen startle slightly, then lower his eyes with self-conscious apology. He smiles softly, embarrassed but still risking a few short, echoing glances despite what Xingchen says. He doesn't see any signs of transformation on what open skin is there, but he can't help the few awkward looks anyway.

The news does get him to raise his head, because that was something he might have heard about in passing, but it was older news and Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had certainly not been there. The last time those two had encountered Xue Yang, the encounter had been fatal and very tragic. Did he misunderstand something? Perhaps. It was possible. But it is also a great deal of difference to misunderstand.

"Ah, Xue Yang was a criminal, I believe? That does sound familiar."

Familiar and yet completely baffling. What is he missing exactly?

"Well, I am glad at least that you were not brought here during anything urgent. I would not want you to feel too pressured by being pulled away without warning. Have Wangji and Wei-gongzi been treating you kindly? It can be difficult to take everything in at once."