Feng Jian closed the door softly behind him, the corridor's lantern glow guiding his steps. His night clothes—neatly folded on the bed—felt foreign after a day of trials.
Lisa said she'd be here… end of the hall.
He paused at her door and rapped twice.
"Come in," came her cool voice.
Inside, Lisa sat on a two-seater couch, her posture composed even in silk nightwear. Feng offered a bow and took the single seat opposite.
Her gaze held a hint of disappointment before softening. "You mastered the Tempest Art and those daggers," she began. "But within the academy, you'll face far greater opponents and challenges. Are you ready?"
Feng remained silent, gauging her expression.
Lisa… it's been so long.
He inhaled. "One reason I came was to grow stronger, just as you wrote in your letter." He leaned back, folding his arms. "If you're asking if I'm ready… I'll feel my way as I go, like always."
Lisa tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "I've used my Year-ADP Ticket on you and Maria. With Maria, it makes sense—her family serves mine. But sponsoring you will draw attention. In two months, any student may challenge you to claim that sponsorship." She folded her hands in her lap. "With that in mind, are you prepared?"
Feng met her eyes. "If I understand you correctly, I just have to win. Sounds simple enough."
She nodded. "I'll hold you to that. By the way… your class is Arcane, right?"
Surprise flickered across his face. "How did you know?"
Lisa offered a faint smile. "A wild guess. But remember—you may not show your status window to anyone but your instructors."
"I understand."
She leaned forward, recalling childhood memories in Central Terra. As they shared stories of simpler times, dusk slipped into night. When the clock chimed, they bid each other goodnight.
Dawn in the Courtyard
The next morning, sunlight filtered through colored glass in the east wing. In the grand foyer, Ava, Rena, and Maria waited—Maria already in her academy uniform.
Lisa and Feng descended the stone staircase together. At the bottom, Feng greeted Rena and Ava with a nod.
Ava clapped her hands cheerfully. "Lisa, Rena—I'll escort these two to South Hall, where all new students gather. See you in class later."
Maria straightened her skirt as Lisa addressed them. "Maria, Feng—have a good first day."
With warm smiles, Ava and Rena led Feng and Maria through the columns toward their next trial: forging their futures in the Seven Star Academy.
End of Chapter 23