In the end, the four of them gritted their teeth and steeled themselves as they went forward.
With their eyes shut and their breath held, they pinched Yu Xiaogang's clothes between two fingers and lifted him off the ground.
That feel, that smell, that... Anyway, the four of them were having the time of their lives.
"Ugh—!"
Ma Hongjun retched.
"Don't throw up! Hold it in!" Tang San growled.
The four carried Yu Xiaogang with stiff steps and green faces, heading toward a nearby water source.
Once the four had disappeared from sight, Xue Qinghe's expression returned to its usual gentleness.
She turned around, raised her voice, and called out:
"Teachers and students, today's activities will continue! Let's get moving!"
"I've already had plenty of fine wine and food prepared. Today, we drink until we drop!"
"Long live Your Highness the Crown Prince!"
"Long live Your Highness the Crown Prince!"
Everyone cheered in unison, and the atmosphere instantly caught fire.
The destination for this picnic had been chosen: a scenic spot a hundred li east of Heaven Dou City.
It was nestled between mountains and water, with verdant hills like painted brows, a babbling brook, and lush green grass.
Mountains rolled in the distance, shrouded in mist and clouds. Nearby, wildflowers carpeted the ground as bees and butterflies flitted about. It was indeed a fine place for an outing in the countryside.
Several hundred people were scattered across an area spanning more than twenty li. The various academies had each picked their own spots, pitching tents and chatting loudly. It was a lively scene.
The Dao Seeking Academy's camp was set up beside a clear stream.
The water was shallow, barely reaching their knees. It was so clear that they could see the pebbles on the bottom and the