"You are very welcome! We could all use a little more positivity during these times, I think!"

He eyes his security as he says this, silently daring them to admonish him in front of his fans. Abigail, the head of his guard, raises an eyebrow, her (literally) fiery hair sending off a small spark of embers over her dark skin, promising that he'll get an earful later. Here and now though, he's safe.

"All of the hard work you fans do with supporting and promoting me means just as much!"

His voice remains pleasant and warm, but takes on an edge of genuine affection.

"Seeing you here like this really makes me hopeful for a better future."