Xia Ya smiled. "Look at Li Qingxian, his face is all red. He must have drunk quite a lot, yet he forced himself to come over just to see us. But an old classmate who failed to show up cannot go unpunished. Let's follow Young Master Lou's suggestion: one penalty cup first, then we'll see how he performs afterward."
Lou Yushan laughed. "Haha, we'll listen to Xia Ya."
Li Qingxian looked toward Xia Ya. Having had a little wine, her face was like peach blossoms, her lips vivid red, her eyes rippling with light. She smiled faintly; though still so young, she possessed a distinct charm.
"I already prepared one for you. It's right beside me!" Du Qizhen came over, pulled Li Qingxian back, and had him stand between himself and Xia Ya.
"Drink this cup first, then we can talk!" Du Qizhen picked up a tiny glazed cup barely an inch high and handed it to Li Qingxian.
Li Qingxian took it and waved it at the crowd with a smile. "Then I'll finish this cup." He tipped back his head and drained it.
"Good!" After cheering, everyone took their seats.
Li Qingxian tilted his head slightly and said in a low voice, "Thanks, old classmate."
Xia Ya gave a light laugh. "Why be so polite?"
Lou Yushan glanced at Li Qingxian and smiled. "Young Master Li, how are things in the Night Guard? With your abilities, you should at least have entered the ranks. At worst, you ought to have become a deputy squad leader, right?"
Li Qingxian smiled. "You all know me. I'm neither accomplished in letters nor skilled in martial arts. How could I be a deputy squad leader?"
With drunkenness clouding his eyes, Lou Yushan said, "No rush. I think one day you'll rise step