*Chapter 41: The Moon Lotus Festival*
The academy grounds transformed at sunset, silver lanterns twinkling in every tree and lotus petals floating on the streams. For one night, even the strictest professors joined the laughter—no lessons, no training, just celebration.
**Opening Parade:** Nightwatch walked together, arms linked as fireworks burst above. Li Wei handed Xiulan a moon-shaped lantern; her smile made his heart thump faster. Jin Ming "accidentally" brushed Mei Fen's hand, earning a teasing wink. Bao Yu nervously offered Yan a lucky moon pin—she accepted with a tiny, rare smile.
**Lantern Relay:** Xiulan and Li Wei paired up. Racing around the pond, they struggled to balance a glowing orb between them, giggling as it almost plunged in. "You're terrible at this!" Xiulan teased, but when Li Wei winked and steadied her, sparks flew.
**Magical Dueling:** On the dueling field, Jin Ming and Mei Fen took on all challengers. Mei Fen unleashed a clever water spell, Jin Ming covered her with a shield—they won, high-fived, and a ripple of applause (and blushing) followed. Yan entered the solo round, her confidence dazzling. She outsmarted every opponent, and Bao Yu was her loudest supporter.
**Potion Contest:** Potion fumes drifted in the cool air. Bao Yu forced down his nerves to partner with Yan. Every time their hands brushed, he flustered; Yan smirked but secretly clung to his sleeve. Their shimmering, silver-blue elixir claimed first prize.
**Festival Banquet:** By lantern-light, the friends feasted. Stories and laughter flowed, old pain almost forgotten. Mei Fen toasted the group: "To friends who become family…and new beginnings." Under the table, Jin Ming held her hand.
- **Nightfall at the Lotus Pond:** The festival ended with wishes. Each teammate lit a lantern, whispered hopes into it, and watched it float skyward. Li Wei and Xiulan lingered, faces lit by lantern glow. He brushed a stray petal from Xiulan's hair. She leaned in, soft and shy. The team watched, grinning, as a kiss finally sealed their new chapter.
Warmth and wonder filled the night. For once, they just belonged—to the festival, to each other, to the bright future ahead.