The two chatted as they walked along one of the academy's paths.
Both sides of Heaven Dou Royal Advanced Academy's tree-lined avenue were planted with evergreens.
As Li Hanche spoke, his pace suddenly slowed.
Several people were surrounding two students in the small plaza ahead.
The one at the head wore brocade robes and stood with his arms folded, his face carrying the kind of smug superiority that made one's teeth itch.
The Fourth Prince, Xue Beng.
Three or four lackeys followed behind him, all noble-born youths. They echoed every word Xue Beng said with flattering laughter.
The two surrounded students kept their heads lowered and shoulders hunched. One of their academy uniform collars had been yanked crooked. It was obvious that violence had already taken place.
One of Xue Beng's lackeys was the first to glimpse the two approaching from the far end of the avenue.
His smile froze on his face. He hurriedly tugged Xue Beng's sleeve, lowering his voice, though anyone could hear the tension in it.
"Boss, the Crown Prince and that jinx are coming!"
The moment Xue Beng heard the words "jinx," his arrogance visibly shrank.
He abruptly turned his head and met Li Hanche's smiling eyes.
Li Hanche strolled forward at an unhurried pace, rolling his neck as he walked. His vertebrae cracked.
Then he shook out his right leg, circling his ankle twice in the air as if warming up.
"Well, isn't this convenient? Big Brother, you can take a look at the leg technique I've recently developed."
The corner of Xue Qinghe's lips curved upward.
Two years ago, Baiwei had mentioned that, besides practicing his spear, the young master had become fascinated with combining leg techniques and movement techniques in his training.
He had never seen it for himself.
Perfect timing. Xue