Work Text:
Pangzi's personality was convivial by default. He had every punchline and setup memorized. He tolerated ribbing with huge self-deprecating grins and laughter. Wang Pangzi knows how to have and give a good time. They always ended up hoarse by the end of any midnight get-together, Liu Sang included.
But if someone threatens Wu Xie…
Pangzi's grin vanished the instant the blade glinted beneath the streetlight. A blade that lined up with the mysterious scar on Wu Xie's neck.
Bai Hoatian's giggles faded into uncertainty, not sure of what she's seeing.
Li Jiale's eyes darted to everyone, unsure of what to do.
Liu Sang cleared his throat. He tensed, resting on the balls of his feet as he's seen Ouxiang do, but when the blade flashed, pressing close enough Wu Xie's throat pinked, Liu Sang rocked back onto his heels.
If only Zhang Qiling wasn't up North with Hei Xiazi. Ouxiang would have disarmed the weasel-faced would-be thief before anyone could blink.
Wu Xie, with the knife at his throat, one hand painfully pulled back, only smirked. His expression was sphinxlike. His gaze stayed fixed on Pangzi.
"Buddy," Pangzi rumbled. The beer flush vanished from his cheeks. The rolling slur took on an edge so quickly, everyone—except Wu Xie—blinked.
"Think carefully about your next move. Pang-ye will only allow you one."
A spark of unease crawled up Liu Sang's spine. He stared wide-eyed at Pangzi, the tableau in front of them momentarily paling in comparison.
The robber, using Wu Xie as a shield, hesitated. He retreated a step back when Pangzi spoke.
Pangzi scowled. Pulling Wu Xie away was an unacceptable response. His right hand balled into a fist, knuckles popping as his fist tightened in readiness.
The man's eyes had darted on each one, now stared at Pangzi's stalking figure. He gulped.
Liu Sang felt a tiny speck of pity for the guy.
Turns out Zhang Qiling wasn't the only one to fear among the Iron Triangle.