"Hello, big guy."
Lian Po paused mid-bite and glanced warily at Xiaojiu. But when he felt the reassuring mental message from Yang Qi—'He's one of us'—he relaxed and responded with a low growl.
"Hello."
"KREEE—"
A clear cry rang out from high above as Qi Zai's massive form began to descend, circling slowly downward. The downdraft from its wings flattened the surrounding grass and trees.
Lian Po felt the oppressive aura of the raptor in the sky and tensed instinctively, a low rumble starting in his throat.
"Relax, Lian Po. They're my partners, just like you."
Yang Qi soothed him, then introduced him to Xiaojiu and Qi Zai. "This is Lian Po. He's our new partner from now on."
Xiaojiu flicked its tail and suddenly sent a thought to Lian Po.
"How about a bath, big guy?"
"Uh..."
Lian Po, who was in the middle of his meal, froze. He stopped eating, embarrassed, and instinctively sniffed himself.
With his enhanced intelligence, Lian Po understood more now.
