Yes. [His immediate agreement is to the offer of helping him connect with tasks that'll keep him busy. Couldn't hurt.] Do. I can probably help you, anyway.

[He also seats himself after a snort at the idea of A-Yao taking on too much. It's a trait that Mingjue remembers from Meng Yao, and it's curious to see in this person and in this situtation. After letting A-Yao serve him, however, he takes the bottle of alcohol in hand and considers it for a moment. His brow creases as he gathers his words until he's frowning quite seriously at the bottle. Then he turns the serious gaze on A-Yao.]

And I'm sorry. That I haven't been here for you this last little while. We both know why, and I don't regret that part of it, but.

[A moments pause.]

I missed all of these large doings, and I missed you. I don't like it. I don't like leave you alone in hostile territory.