And China knows he knows it, too; regardless of how many personal dealings they've had on their own, he's one of the Dead Men. All of them know the basics of dealing with her. This conversation is going to have several layers-- if it doesn't already.

A more irritating group she has rarely found, but they have a special place in her heart. Not always positive, but special nonetheless.

She shows none of this, of course, simply keeps smiling like they're old friends, just catching up. "Flatterer," she says, amused. As if he'd be incautious enough to let her do it.

"Busy enough. It's been since December," she answers in a moment. It's not really giving information away if it's something anyone could tell him. "Just after things here were settled." He can conclude that she had to start from scratch himself. China gives him a sidelong, thoughtful look, tilting her head just a little; her hair falls back as she does, leaving the line of her neck bare. "I do hope Shudder has filled you in. You're familiar with the timeline problems we face?"