Xiu bares her teeth and raises a paw, pointedly brandishing viscous claws. Fierce! Xingchen only smiles at her display and nods in agreement.

"As I am sure A-Ying is a fierce defender. I am glad you have her by your side." And her flopping wetly on Xue Yang's foot only makes him draw in a quick breath in an attempt not to laugh.

He doesn't push the compliment - accepting the abrupt change in topic easily. "Do you want help braiding your hair?" Even if that means releasing the mangled hand, he'll happily do it to help.