The one in the lead, who was a bit sharper, was the first to pull out a cigarette case when he saw Zong Qi stop. "Brother Qi, you're following the Boss Lady now, so your future is secure. But us... we're just regular guys who can't find work."
"The Boss Lady is so capable. Could you ask her for us? See if she can help point us toward a way to make a living?"
Zong Qi frowned. "Miss Chen isn't part of the underworld."
Li Shun nodded and bowed. "We know, but Miss Chen's reputation must have spread through the underworld by now. We know she doesn't like that stuff, but we just want to ask her for a little guidance so we can keep supporting our families without all the fighting and killing."
Zong Qi's hand paused when he heard that last sentence. He didn't refuse them outright. "Go on back for now. I'll ask Miss Chen when I go see her this afternoon."
The other seven underlings immediately beamed with joy. "We'll be counting on you, Brother Qi! Go well, Brother Qi!"
