His hand stays poised to grab the pouch and remove his guqin, preparing for whatever comes next, regardless of how Koro attempts to ease his anxiety. Sizhui knows demons, is well-aware how they often use dirty tricks and ploys and any tactics possible and necessary to free themselves from capture, but a part of him truly wants to believe what Koro's saying isn't a lie.

No desire to hurt him, sure, but what about others? What about the people who might go against him if he lets him free? Obviously, Koro would defend himself, and in his defense, he'd have every right to protect himself against an attack—

But they have more important things to worry about.

Normally, Sizhui would sense the approach of another creature, likely the one he's been looking for this whole time, but Koro's aura is so strong, it overrides any other senses he could have. He vigorously shakes his head, redirects his gaze and narrows his eyes, completely unfazed.

“Right,” he scoffs, “and then, after I've let you go, you'll run free to do as you please, yes? I don't think that's a good idea. I'm not sure I can trust you.”