( He makes a small, interested noise in the back of his throat, watching as the ghosts back away from Lan Xichen's approach. It's easy to offer him an apologetic tilt of his head when he sees the true state of Wen Kexing's cooking, the corner of his mouth tugged up into a wry smile. A part of him wants to protest that he's actually far better at this than the current state of things seems to imply, but there's little point to it. )

They haven't tried to kill me.

( The yet is implied. Wen Kexing is sure they're puppets, just like the stone statues. He wouldn't be surprised if one went for his neck. But, it is easier to make himself seem pleasant, kind, it makes him less of a threat. That might be useful, later. )

Which is better than whatever else lies outside of this kitchen. Have you had any trouble?