Xu Hong smiled and waved his hand, saying softly, "We're fellow disciples, so there's no need for formalities. Just be careful. I won't disturb you any longer. You should prepare yourself; the competition is about to begin."
After speaking, Xu Hong turned to leave, but his steps faltered for a moment. He added another reminder, "If you run into those three I mentioned, be extremely careful. Don't let your pride get the better of you. Even if you lose, Master and our martial brothers won't laugh at you. This is your first time in the trials, so don't put too much pressure on yourself."
With that, Xu Hong turned and walked back toward the eighth arena.
Yang Jing watched Xu Hong's departing figure, a faint warmth spreading through his chest.
