Huaisang's breath catches as the air begins to shift around him. He hugs the statuette to his chest, more because he wants to cling to something than because he wants to protect it.

His mind goes immediately to Toutong outside, his trusted attendant and advisor, who is probably straining out of his skin with the urge to rush in and protect him. But Huaisang isn't willing to let anyone get hurt for his sake. He's terrified, but he will deal with this.

"Um," Huaisang says, voice squeaky with fear. His shoulders hunch, eyes wide and scared, but he stays where he is, clutching the little statue. "Hello."