Cracking her knuckles, Liwen retrieved one of her metal-spiked gloves from inside her robe. Slipping it on, she stood in front of Chi Cheng in a protective stance.
"Just a moment, Cheng'er." Liwen gestured for Chi Cheng to remain behind her. "This won't take long."
"Wait!" Huo Renyi protested, raising both his hands defensively. "Senior sister Chi Liwen, I pose no threat nor any harm." Backing away, Huo Renyi pleadedly looked to Chi Cheng for assistance.
"Liwen jiejie." Chi Cheng tapped his older sister's shoulder. "It's ok, he's somewhat of an ally. Hardly trustable yet, but he might be useful."
Stepping aside, Liwen retreated her advance and tucked the glove back into her robe.
"You have an awful habit of eavesdropping." Chi Cheng frowned. "But your ability to remain undetected while doing so is impressive."
