Meng Bai followed behind Lin Mu, though his steps were noticeably unsteady. His expression was blank, his eyes unfocused, as if his mind had yet to return from wherever it had wandered.
Behind them, the twins occasionally nudged him with their heads, while Little Shrubby trotted along with a clearly amused expression. The small beast even let out a few soft chuffs, as if barely containing his laughter.
Meng Bai, however, did not respond at all.
At one point, he nearly stopped walking entirely, his body freezing mid-step. Xiao Yin had to coil slightly around his arm and tug him forward, while Xiao Yang flicked his tail against the boy's leg in irritation.
"Move," Xiao Yang hissed softly.
Meng Bai blinked once but still did not speak.
Thus, the strange procession continued until they finally returned to Lin Mu's courtyard within the royal palace.
Meanwhile, Minister Ren did not linger.
