When classes ended that afternoon, He An walked out of the schoolhouse with Fan Dazhi trailing sluggishly behind him. The fellow rubbed his stomach listlessly while rummaging through his clothes. After a long search, he found two fried broad beans, tossed them into his mouth, and crunched them loudly.
"Xiao An, let's eat out. The Dining Hall's food is all watery broth and no substance. My belly hasn't had any grease in days."
Fan Dazhi was still grumbling unhappily when a hand clapped him on the shoulder from behind.
He turned and saw Gu Qingzhou and Bi Yunfei, and his spirits instantly lifted.
"It's been ages, brothers! I heard Brother He An was released from confinement today, so I came looking for you. Come on, let's give him a proper welcome back!"
Dressed in a light fur coat and a jade belt, Gu Qingzhou warmly took the two by their arms and steered them toward the gates of the Knowledge and Practice Institute without allowing any argument. A smile hovered at the corners of Bi Yunfei's mouth as he watched He An's back with a touch of envy and followed silently behind.
Outside the Knowledge and Practice Institute, Gu Qingzhou already had a carriage waiting. It carried them straight to the Grand View Tower.
"I heard you're fighting Li Bie tomorrow... He's been famous for years, and his cultivation is anything but ordinary. You mustn't underestimate him!"
After several rounds of drinks, Gu Qingzhou looked gravely at He An and continued, "I know you're tenacious, Brother He, but if you really... can't beat him, just concede. Losing to such a powerful opponent... is no disgrace!"
"Don't worry, Brother Gu. During my three months in the Confinement Room, I gained a little insight into my cultivation. I was hoping to use