Zhuge Hong and Jian Changfeng immediately realized how serious the situation was. One moment, the burly man had been recounting Qin Hao's dazzling exploits; the next, Shi Youbing had stepped forward.
And more than that.
He had recognized Zhuge Hong and Jian Changfeng at a glance. Without a doubt, Shi Youbing had come prepared.
The two frowned, but neither turned to leave. With so many people watching, walking away would make them look weak. They would likely become fodder for gossip again.
"So, it's the Shi Family's genius."
Zhuge Hong remained seated. He took a sip of tea and said gravely, "Qin Hao defeated you three months ago. Three months later, he can kill you just the same. If you're bent on seeking death, by all means, stay."
The wicked smile that had never left Shi Youbing's face faltered.
Jian Changfeng sneered too. "You're nothing but a defeated opponent. Do you still want to challenge Qin Hao and wash away your shame? Ridiculous. Dealing with you would take Qin Hao just one sword strike."
"How dare you!"
Shi Youbing flew into a rage, glaring at Zhuge Hong and Jian Changfeng as though his eyes might spit fire.
Everyone around them froze for a moment. Many looked amused, while even more watched with the eager expressions of people hoping the spectacle would grow.
By now, they had a rough idea of what was going on.
These two were clearly close to Qin Hao, and Qin Hao had defeated Shi Youbing before. That was why Shi Youbing had sought them out.
Shi Youbing seethed. When he spotted Zhuge Hong and Jian Changfeng, he had planned to use them to contact Qin Hao. He had not expected them to humiliate him so thoroughly.
Furious as he was, Shi Youbing forced himself to endure