Grace Monta was momentarily baffled.
According to Leanne Vale and Selene, Luceris had always been described as a "young man."
And throughout their conversations, both girls had clearly failed to conceal the affection they felt for "him."
Curious and intrigued, Grace had tried to imagine what kind of person Luceris must be on her way here. After all, even Leanne—with her carefree personality—seemed genuinely taken. But what truly surprised Grace was that Selene, someone often indifferent and jaded, also appeared to harbor deep fondness for Luceris.
That alone made Grace want to know everything about this mysterious individual.
There had to be something extraordinary.
But now, standing before her, was not a boy at all—but a girl.
A girl with long, jet-black straight hair, delicate features, and a serene air that was almost ethereal. She looked like an angel descended from the clouds.
Was this some kind of joke?
The principal, too, was stunned—not because of Luceris's appearance, but because the elderly guest beside her was being unusually warm.
Calling it an honor to meet Luceris?
What on earth was going on?
The atmosphere in the office was thick with unspoken thoughts. Everyone looked different—some puzzled, some surprised—and each was mulling over something quietly.
Luceris herself was dumbfounded by the kind, smiling old man in front of her.
But judging from the respectful expressions on everyone else's faces, it was clear—this man's status surpassed even Jace Lean, the former deputy director of the Education Department.
Why would someone of his stature treat her so respectfully?
Just then, Grace stood and cleared her throat. "Little Luceris—sister, ahem. Let me introduce you. This is Mr. Fang, the head of the highest-level scientific research project team in our ancient Eastern country."
She gestured with respect. "Nearly every major scientific research weapon in the country was designed under Mr. Fang's leadership. He is truly a titan in the field."
Luceris instantly straightened, filled with awe. She had never expected the seemingly ordinary old man before her to be the legendary "Father of Scientific Research."
"Hello, Mr. Fang..."
Mr. Fang chuckled. "Hahaha, I didn't expect you to be such a charming young lady. I really thought you were a boy at first. Come now, come—let's chat."
He warmly took Luceris aside to talk privately, his manner relaxed and grandfatherly.
Grace could only shake her head in amusement. She had seen this coming.
Just yesterday, at the research center, Mr. Fang had been practically bursting with excitement.
After all, the magic storage project that had stymied researchers for years had made a sudden breakthrough—thanks to a new combination of crystal materials. Materials that, according to tests, were sourced from the exclusive dungeon created by Luceris.
No wonder he seemed years younger today.
Mr. Fang carried no airs. He looked like a completely ordinary senior citizen, the kind you'd pass on the street without noticing.
Luceris quickly began to relax in his presence, chatting and laughing.
She gradually understood that the materials Fang kept referring to were drops from her personal dungeon—and they had immense scientific value.
Whenever he mentioned this, Mr. Fang's eyes sparkled with excitement. When he looked at Luceris, it was with sincere gratitude.
The principal and teachers remained quietly on the sidelines, careful not to intrude.
But inside, the principal was overjoyed. He could barely suppress his grin.
Initially, he had thought that the silence surrounding Luceris's hidden profession meant there was nothing more to expect.
But to think that such a heavyweight would show up unannounced?
Clearly, Luceris was poised to soar.
And when one person ascends, those around them rise too.
With someone like Mr. Fang personally involved, the principal knew this would bring unprecedented honor to Tranquenhold Academy. He now looked at Luceris with unmasked fondness, already planning to award her a bonus.
As for Teacher Zhang—she was practically glowing. This year's teaching director title? Locked in.
Eventually, Mr. Fang returned to the topic at hand.
He turned to Luceris. "About the 'mining plan' I mentioned—please discuss it with Grace later. Our professionals will evaluate your abilities and then develop the most effective schedule."
"Of course, only you can access the independent dungeon, so everything will be tailored around you. If you have any special requests, don't hesitate to ask. We'll make sure you have everything you need."
Luceris nodded, unbothered.
This was a win-win situation. There was no reason to refuse.
On her own, she could never take down the monsters in her dungeon.
If she wanted to grow stronger, leveraging the nation's resources was the only logical path forward.
Besides, if the materials from her dungeon were truly vital for weapon development, then full cooperation was in everyone's best interest.
With nations like America and Japan constantly testing the limits of the ancient Eastern country, a conflict could erupt at any moment.
But if high-level weapons could be mass-produced, if every knight and soldier could be armed—or if they could even create god-slaying, star-destroying weapons...
Then the ancient Eastern country's future supremacy would be secured.
Their conversation had been thoroughly pleasant, both parties aligning naturally in their vision.
Mr. Fang, delighted, invited Luceris to his 80th birthday celebration two months from now. Overwhelmed by his warmth, she had no choice but to agree.
As for university choices, he assured her she could go wherever she pleased.
Luceris simply said she would consider it and decide later.
After a long while, Mr. Fang left the school.
Grace looked at Luceris with a subtle smile. "Say... mind if I take a look at your dungeon sometime?"
"Of course," Luceris replied. "Sister Leanne and Sister Selene should still be inside."
Grace's eyes lit up. Leaning forward just slightly, her charm seemed to blossom like spring, as she murmured, "I'm not so good at fighting. You'll have to protect me."
Her voice held a teasing warmth, soft and spellbinding.
Luceris felt herself fluster under that kind of pressure. She hurriedly said, "Let's not waste time then, Sister Grace. Let's go!"