Lan Zhan cuts his eyes over, studying his face as discreetly as he can. The sudden fervor has left and seems to have left the man depleted in a way that feels so familiar to Lan Zhan. Once again he very much hopes he is wrong, hopes he is projecting his own past.

"Forgive my impertinence, Master Shen," he murmurs, stopping next to the path that leads outside the city. "If I can also suggest, this path leads to the river. It is quiet and private. Once Master Shen has settles, he may enjoy the solace it brings. I find it helpful."