Chen Jing retraced his steps and left the Peach Garden.
As he traveled, he kept thinking about what it had felt like to exchange blows with Feng Mengsong.
Judging by mental cultivation alone, Mr. Guanshan had reached the point where his mind could affect the physical world.
Chen Jing did not know how strong Feng Mengsong's internal energy was, but with a mind cultivated to that level, it could only be stronger still.
A man of that caliber...
If he had gone to intercept Chen Jing before Chen Jing reached Xiantian...
He could have dealt with him as easily as plucking something from his palm, without breaking a sweat.
It seemed the man from back then was probably not Mr. Guanshan himself, though he was unlikely to be uninvolved.
Chen Jing would have to probe further to learn the truth.
Either way, he had accomplished what he came for today.
Chen Jing climbed into his carriage and headed straight home.
The flirtations in the Peach Garden, the tales of gifted scholars and beautiful women, belonged to another world. They had nothing to do with him, and never would.
The next day.
Chen Jing changed into his standard-issue black uniform, strapped on the Cold Moon Saber and the Butcher Knife, and fastened his Bronze Badge at his waist.
After wearing those long scholar's robes...
He still found fitted fighting clothes far more comfortable and easier to move in.
He arrived at the entrance to Hanshui Academy.
This time, he gave his name directly.
Before long, a scholar emerged from the academy. Chen Jing recognized him as one of the men who had accompanied Feng Mengsong at Spring Garden the day before.
The scholar cupped his hands toward Chen Jing.
"Lord Chen, I'm Liu Guan."
"My teacher is waiting in Guanshan Courtyard."