"What are you shouting for? No fooling around!"
At that thought, Xiao Ying glared at Lan Yu and scolded her. Then, without waiting for Lan Yu or the others to say anything, he turned to Lan Yan beside her, who wore a quiet smile and looked composed, elegant, and rather shy, and greeted her:
"Long time no see! You came too? Are you representing Empress Island?"
Lan Yan responded with a faint smile. "More or less! Mother sent us to broaden our horizons and relax a little. She came too, but it isn't appropriate for her to show herself!"
"Hmm?"
Xiao Ying's heart tightened. Lost in thought, he slowly left the purple lotus and approached the gathered crowd.
He had not expected the Blue Sky Empress to come in person. Hopefully, the other factions would not send figures of equal stature, or there would be far more variables-and far greater danger!
As swift as a startled hare, Lan Yu bounded to Xiao Ying's side. She wanted to take his arm but was too shy and timid, so she forced herself to hold back, pouting as she muttered, "I wasn't shouting nonsense! Everyone here is one of our own anyway. Master! Master! Master..."
"..."
Speechless, Xiao Ying rubbed Lan Yu's head in exasperation and simply said nothing.
"Greetings, High Priest!"
Among the party from Empress Island, a beautiful woman dressed in colorful silks, with a full, shapely figure and a thousand alluring charms, bowed in greeting and promptly continued:
"I am Die Anling. By the Empress's command, I am here to protect the two young ladies."
Xiao Ying looked at the beautiful woman in puzzlement, then hurriedly replied with courteous respect, "I have long admired your reputation, Senior Lingjing. Your presence brings splendor to our humble abode. You are most welcome!"