The lightning that had clashed against the cold instantly dissipated. Though Haruki's voice had been meant for Lanling alone, a few sharp-eyed spectators who could read lips managed to decipher his words.
Lixuan was one of them.
He snorted, though a twinge of envy coiled deep inside him despite himself. Reluctantly, he withdrew the icy aura he had released. This was his Talent—an ability born from the betrayal of his first love.
With a quiet sigh, he rose to his feet, deciding to make the announcement himself. Lanling, lost in his own world, had no mind for formalities now. And if Lixuan was being honest, he needed the distraction. It was growing difficult to look at Lanling without seeing too much of himself.
The next ten minutes were spent on various verifications.
And in those ten minutes, Lanling found himself utterly distracted by Haruki.
