Crack-crack, crack...
The sound of dry branches snapping underfoot came one after another, drawing closer and closer until it stopped directly behind him.
Ying Sinan went rigid as a ramrod, only his eyes moving slightly as he glanced at the hand that had suddenly appeared over his shoulder.
It was broad and rough, a scholar's hand, yet calluses covered many parts of it.
That hand produced beautiful handwriting, and its blows hurt like hell.
Its owner spoke ominously behind him. "Diligent and studious, painstakingly researching the Qimen Dunjia Arts since the age of six?"
Ying Sinan shuddered violently and said weakly, "N-no, I haven't..."
The icy voice behind him never paused, utterly unconcerned with whether he could stand steadily, whether his head still spun, or whether he had enjoyed his day. It cared only about calling him to account-
"Threatening Xiang Yan into doing your homework?"
"Getting Duan Mo to help you swindle money out of your family??"
"And what was that business at the alley entrance? Did you threaten that fellow too?!"
Ying Sinan's lips trembled. He nearly gave everyone a live demonstration of a grown man bursting into tears. "Father... please let me explain, Father..."
The thousand-pound weight finally lifted from his shoulder. After a rustle of clothing, his father's voice followed, carrying that particular chill it always had before a beating. "Fine. Explain."
Ying Sinan: "..."
...Actually, there didn't seem to be anything he could explain?
Ying Sinan's toes shifted ever so slightly to the side, preparing to make his escape for today-
"Ah!!"
The little brat's voice suddenly rang out again.
"Uncle, where are you going?!"
Ying Sinan: "!!!"
Ying Sinan's eyes nearly split with fury!
You little brat!!
You're cutting off my road to survival, do you know that?!!
The large hand behind him shot