"He sounds like a loyal individual," he agrees, hoping against hope that's all Consort Shen intends to leave in the note. He really doesn't need any well-intended meddling in his own love life. He can make plenty of bad decisions on his own, thank you!

"I am sure your other self will greet him kindly. And if I encounter any serpent demons washed up on shore, I shall be sure to send them his way."

A playful smile flits across his lips only briefly.