Flame Alliance Headquarters
"Everyone, no need to see me off." Xiao Yan stood before a flying Magical Beast and smiled at the people before him.
Several figures stood in the square. Had any ordinary person been present, they would have discovered that these people encompassed nearly all of the Flame Alliance's upper ranks.
Xiao Ding's steps were somewhat unsteady as he swayed over to Xiao Yan. Looking at his younger brother, who was now half a head taller than himself, he raised a hand and placed it on Xiao Yan's shoulder. "Who knows how many years you'll be gone this time? You must take good care of yourself out there!"
Xiao Yan nodded slightly and answered earnestly, "I'll definitely bring Father back!"
"Good, good!" Tears glimmered in Xiao Ding's eyes as he chuckled. "If Father could see you now, he would surely be immensely gratified, wouldn't he?"
With that, he lowered his hand and turned toward the crowd. "As long as I'm here, the Xiao Family will be fine. Go out and make your mark without worry!"
Xiao Yan took a deep breath and called softly, "Elder Brother..."
Xiao Ding stopped walking.
"Thank you!" Xiao Yan bowed lightly and spoke sincerely.
Xiao Ding fell silent for a moment before laughing. "It's your Elder Brother and the Xiao Family who should be thanking you, Xiao Yanzi..."
Hearing that familiar form of address, Xiao Yan could not help feeling a sting in his nose. He blinked his slightly reddened eyes, then turned toward the few figures standing quietly in the distance.
"Sister Ya Fei, Old Hai, Old Jia, take care!" Xiao Yan cupped his hands and said solemnly, "The Flame Alliance and the Xiao Family are in your hands!"
"Brat, don't get all sentimental with me." Hai Bodong chuckled. "The Mittel Family