Wind rolled out from the depths of Golden Pouch Cave, sweeping over the snow close to the ground.
The snow grains blew apart to either side, as though clearing a path.
Wukong stared at the cave entrance, his brows slowly drawing together.
Little White Dragon held the Silver Spear across his body, watching Great King Si intently.
Then a woman walked out of the cave.
She was exceptionally tall, with broad, relaxed shoulders and a long waist and legs.
She had wheat-colored skin, a fitted black outfit, short golden hair, amber eyes, and long, powerful legs.
She carried two great blades, their spines thick and their edges thin, with rows of teeth along the edges that spread like wings.
She was barefoot, her steps so light they made no sound.
A stretch of ankle showed, encircled by a golden ring.
It chimed softly with her steps.
Ting.
Ting.
She slowly walked to Great King Si's side and stopped.
Her head remained lowered. She neither bowed nor spoke.
Her twin blades hung beside her legs.
Little White Dragon tightened his grip on his spear and said quietly:
"Eldest Brother, she..."
Wukong stared at the woman without answering.
Great King Si patted the woman's shoulder, his tone casual.
"You Ren."
"Go exchange a few moves with that little dragon."
"It'll give you a chance to hone your skills, too."
The woman said nothing, only nodding slightly.
Then she raised her eyes.
Her amber gaze swept over Wukong first, then settled on Little White Dragon and lingered.
Her eyes were large, yet utterly empty.
No joy or anger.
No killing intent.
Not even a ripple.
She slowly raised her hands.
Her twin blades spread sideways.
The rumble of wind and thunder rolled between their teeth.
The falling snowflakes were sliced cleanly in