[ he's a little taken aback by that, the sudden tone shift just leaves his face blank of expression for a moment.

so baraqiel must be...he pushes the thought away, that's none of his business at this moment. he thinks for a second and then nods, eyes shutting briefly, then opening to look back at xie lian. ]

I appreciate you coming to ask, you are very kind. [ he smiles reassuringly. ]

He would beat himself up about it for the rest of time, if he wasn't there to support you. And I couldn't deny him the opportunity.

I know you will take good care of him, you both will watch out for one another, and that puts me at ease. So please, by all means, take him on the journey with you.

You have my permission.