Central Province, Ten Thousand Flowers Ridge.
Sandong's brows were tightly furrowed, a black stone pinched in hand, an indecisive expression on that face while studying the Go board ahead.
"You really ought to take a good look at this game. You need to be careful."
Looking thoroughly pleased with herself, Qinghe affected an air of sophistication as she picked up the teacup beside her and took a light sip, then shook her head regretfully, as though she were the one in a poor position.
Every disciple in this sect had been led astray by Chu Xingchen. Their black-heartedness only ever increased.
Even when playing Gomoku, they liked to scheme and lay ambushes.
Sandong was still so innocent. Sadly, there were no longer many fairies this innocent in the world.
That was why Qinghe loved playing Gomoku with Sandong, especially when Sandong lost, looked utterly unconvinced, and insisted on another game.
Sandong's expressions and attitude both gave Qinghe an immense feeling of-I really am so clever.
That intellectual crushing brought Qinghe even more joy. After all, in the past, whether it was the Black-Hearted Brat, Cui Hao, or occasionally Xie Lingyu, they would all look at her with eyes that said-Do you actually have a brain?
But in the next instant, Qinghe's leisurely expression quickly vanished without a trace. She stared wide-eyed at the uninvited guest.
"Why are you coming here to join the fun instead of looking for Lingyu?"
Chu Xingchen stood behind Sandong, his gaze falling on the board before a slight smile appeared on his face.
"To see whether my mascot is being bullied, of course."
Qinghe's expression turned solemn, as though she were speaking with utmost seriousness.
"What bullying? You really do make things sound ugly. I'm only playing Gomoku with Sandong."
Chu Xingchen raised his eyebrows