"Say that I deliberately held back during our last spar, that I looked down on you. Make your words a little harsher—ideally enough to draw other disciples over to watch. For the next few days, ignore me. Even if you run into me, pretend you don't see me. Make everyone believe we became enemies over that spar."
"I understand." Tang Yun nodded, then added, "Should I deliberately badmouth you in front of the others? It might make the conflict seem more convincing."
"No need to force it. Just leave it at that."
"If we overdo it, people will become suspicious instead. As long as they see us argue in public and then stop associating with each other, that will be enough. Also, no third person can know about this besides the two of us, including Tang Feng and the others. We can't risk the news leaking."
Tang Yun nodded again. "Don't worry. I know where to draw the line. I'll come find you at the training grounds tomorrow on time."
Lin Taichu went over a few more details with Tang Yun to ensure their act would not go wrong, then rose and took his leave.
When he left Tang Yun's courtyard, he deliberately took a longer route and even lingered briefly near where Tang Kun and the other two lived. Only after confirming that no one was watching him did he return to his own courtyard.
Early the next morning, Lin Taichu went to the training grounds as usual. Quite a few disciples were already there. Tang Feng, Tang Xue, and the others were present as well, each cultivating on their own or occasionally sparring with one another.
Lin Taichu found a corner, took out the Wind-Breaking Nail, and pretended to practice his hidden weapon techniques while keeping an eye