"Eldest Brother, meet Zhang Nia," Li Hua gestured formally. "Nia Nia, my eldest brother, Li Wei."
Li Wei began to bow with his characteristic formality, but was caught off guard as Nia Nia circled him once, her head tilting in frank assessment, her smile deepening with each step. "Very handsome," she declared without a hint of hesitation.
Li Wei's ears reddened slightly, but he quickly cleared his throat, attempting to regain his dignified bearing as he turned stiffly toward the dining hall. "We should go."
Li Hua bit back a laugh—it wasn't often someone could ruffle her composed brother's feathers so easily.
Through the dining hall's entrance they walked, Nia Nia leading them confidently to a private table in the inner disciples' section. The evening crowd parted respectfully—whether for her status as the sect's top disciple or simply her commanding presence, Li Hua couldn't be sure.
