Chapter 4

"For the love of Odin, don't scare them like that!"

Blinking, Shiro watched in silence as a beautiful woman in an azure kimono stepped out from the shadow of the trees. Brandishing his stiletto the young thief stood protectively in front of Ai Ming, but was suddenly pushed aside.

"Big sister! we've been searching all over for you!"

Disregarding the presence of both the thief and the blacksmith, she flung herself at her elder sister, nearly knocking her down. However, this reunion was cut short by her sister's scolding tone.

"Ming-ah, I told you not to wander off! What were you thinking of, hanging around with a thief? Did you not realize the danger and dishonor of your actions?"

Eyes downcast, Ai Ming stepped away from her beloved sibling, not quite knowing how to explain that she hadn't know that her friend was a thief.

"He...he was the one who helped me look for you..."

Sheathing his dagger, Shiro turned in an attempt to leave, only to be stopped by the blacksmith.

"And just where do you think you're going?"

With a look of annoyance and chagrin burning in his violet eyes, Shiro glared at the blacksmith, his acidic stare surprising the taller man to the point of backing away, but only a little.

"I helped Ai-chan because she was scared and lost. What would you rather I do, leave her for someone who might hurt her? Not a chance, my brother taught me better than that."

With a swift movement he shoved the blacksmith's arm away and turned to leave, but felt something tugging at his arm.

"Shiro, please don't mind them, for they were only looking out for my well being. Come, I shall introduce you properly."

Having decided to humor the girl, Shiro reluctantly turned around to face the two young adults.

"Shiro, I would like for you to meet my elder sister, Wong Weili, and her friend Sung Aokai."

The two bowed slightly in greeting as Ai Ming ran behind the thief.

"Big sister, this is Shiro, my new friend."

"Shiro, I am truly sorry for my outburst earlier, I did not realize the honor of your intentions. Please forgive me."

The thief smiled and scratched the back of his head.

"It's alright, you were just worried. Besides, I'm used to being misunderstood. But knowing that she's safe now, I hope you don't mind if I go now."

The three bid the thief farewell, but not without a friendly kiss on the cheek from Ai Ming.

"Shiro, have you done what has been assigned to you?"

The young boy hesitantly pulled a small object from his pocket and tossed it to the other thief, who was well hidden in the shadows.

"Well done Shiro, well done."

the shadowy figure tossed the trinket back. Turning it over in his hand, Shiro inspected the small object. It was a beautiful pendant of white jade which had been carved to resemble a phoenix. A sullen expression on his face, he cursed his fate and shoved the necklace back into his pocket.

----

"Ming-ah, did you enjoy the festival?"

"Yes, especially...oh dear..."

"What's wrong Ming-ah?"

"My..my jade pendant...it's gone."