"I speak only the truth," he returned easily, rolling his shoulders slightly as he watched her slip her shoes on again. It was one of the greatest differences between himself and his master, though he still refused to believe that Sato was the liar others insisted she was. Ko was entirely honest, and not the kind to toss out undeserved compliments. Especially not when that lithe form simply refused to release its hold on his mind. His heart picked up of its own accord when she slid her hand into the crook of his arm, though he kept his expression neutral, managing not to flush.
"Yes, the earth quake," he replied almost absently. At least it was a topic of conversation for his mind to cling to. Or to try to cling to, anyway. In a way not going to Ember Island was a relief, seeing Xiu in bathing clothing on a daily basis just might have been a bit too much for him. He nodded at her suggestions, turning the idea of the Sword and Fan over in his mind. He would, of course, love to show her the school, but Master Sato... there was the issue. Still, he decided it worth the risk, nodding as he guided them back toward the palace... a bit slowly, one might note. "I would be happy to show you the dojo, but you will have to be ready to meet my master. She is... she has a way about her and I am not entirely sure how she will react to my having a guest."