He grinned back at her just as enthusiastically. "Then's it's an honour, Lady River the Sage. May the Merciful Goddess smile upon you." He leaned in conspiratorially. "Although, between us, the Merciful Goddess has a sense of humour twisted enough to make even a War Prince run for cover."

And the power to back it up, unfortunately. Even the Jade Emperor was wary around the Bosatsu.

"And you seem the type people like to be around. Doesn't surprise me one bit."