Yun Tianluo's folding fan paused ever so slightly.
Yun Ruyi burst into a giggle.
Yun Qing smiled. "Since I'm bringing you along, you'd better help ease your elder brother's burdens."
Yun Tianluo gave a wry smile. "Thank you for thinking so highly of me, Eldest Brother. But I can't shake the feeling that this trip won't be simple."
"I think so too."
Yun Qing wholeheartedly agreed. The brothers exchanged a glance, each seeing in the other's eyes the same world-weary look of men whose every move had been neatly arranged by Yun Huang.
Yun Ruyi looked from one to the other, then pressed her lips together and laughed again.
The girl did not mind where they went. In the world of this "little fool," she would be happy no matter what.
In the distance, seeing that the three siblings had finished exchanging greetings, the deputy commander of the Cloud Valor Guards stepped forward at just the right moment and bowed.
"Eldest Young Master, the honor guard is ready. We may depart at any time."
Yun Qing's smile faded as he raised his eyes toward Central Province.
"Let's go."
Yun Qing spoke calmly.
The Yun Clan's banners rose on the wind.
A thousand Cloud Valor Guards wheeled around as one, their qilin treading the clouds, their armor clanging.
Yun Tianluo stood to Yun Qing's left, his moon-white robes billowing, his folding fan half raised, his gentle eyes concealing a keen edge.
Yun Ruyi stood beside them, her pale-yellow skirts fluttering softly, the bells on her wrist chiming clear and bright as an auspicious spiritual glow flickered around her.
Clad in black, Yun Qing stood at the very front with his hands behind his back, his double pupils gazing toward Great Xia in Central Province.
The next instant, the Yun Clan's banners