Lin Hao's warm smile held steady, though a flicker of sharp curiosity lit his eyes at Ruì's mention of Fang Yuan's detailed insistence.
He masked it expertly with another respectful nod.
"The Fang Clan Head's foresight is as renowned as his strength. We are doubly fortunate. The caravan is ready. If you and your cultivators would take positions—"
"I will join Elder Fang Ruì."
The voice, cool and flat, cut through the merchant's practiced diplomacy.
Fang Lian stepped forward from the edge of the Fang group, her movement silent but instantly drawing every eye.
She ignored the subtle flinch from the other juniors, her gaze fixed impassively on Lin Hao, then shifting fractionally to Ruì.
"My task aligns with this route. So I wish to travel with the escort. While staying with the Elder."
A beat of silence followed.
Lin Hao's gaze darted between Lian's unreadable face and Ruì's composed one, assessing the undercurrent.
