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The next morning, just as dawn's first light tinged the sky, Fang Yang and Gu Yue were already up.
Outside, crisp birdsong pierced the quiet air, breathing life into the stillness.
The morning breeze, scented with flowers and grass, drifted through the half-open window, gentle as a whisper.
From the kitchen, mouthwatering aromas began to rise—Mother Lin Mengxi was preparing breakfast.
Hearing footsteps, she poked her head out, surprised.
"Yang'er, Gu Yue—you're up so early?"
Fang Yang stepped to her side.
"Mom, we need to go out for a bit."
"So early?" She frowned, eyes darting between them—but relented with a nod. "Alright. Be careful—and come back soon."
"We will," Fang Yang promised obediently.
---
Outside, soft morning sunlight bathed them in gold.
The streets were nearly empty—only elderly morning exercisers and early-market vendors about.
The air hung fresh with earth and dew, refreshing the spirit.
"Fang Yang—where are we going?" Gu Yue tilted her head, curious.
Fang Yang's eyes glowed with nostalgia.
"To Hongshan (Red Mountain) Academy."
His voice was soft, distant, steeped in memory.
"Red Mountain Academy?" Gu Yue's eyes sparkled.
"Where Auntie teaches… and where you studied, right?"
"Mm." He smiled. "It holds so many of my memories."
Hand in hand, they strolled down the quiet road.
Sunlight dappled through leaves, rustling like whispered secrets.
Soon, Red Mountain Academy's gates came into view.
A modest yet pristine institution—white roofs, red walls, spotless grounds—
home to 2,000 students in ordinary times.
Now, empty and serene with everyone on break.
Fang Yang walked Gu Yue through the campus, pointing out landmarks with tender familiarity:
"This is the classroom building—I took cultural lessons here every day."
"That's the training field—our combat classes were held there. And the library—I'd lose whole days in its stacks…"
Gu Yue listened intently—gasping, asking questions, eyes alight with wonder.
Fang Yang answered patiently, retracing his past step by step with her.
Finally, they reached their true destination: the Headmaster's office.
Fang Yang took a steadying breath—and knocked gently.
Knock. Knock.
"Come in!" a warm voice called.
Inside, the Headmaster looked up from his documents—and beamed at the sight of Fang Yang.
"Fang Yang! And who's this lovely young lady?"
"Headmaster—this is my girlfriend, Gu Yue," Fang Yang said proudly.
"You sly dog!" The Headmaster laughed heartily. "You'd better treat her well!"
"Of course," Fang Yang vowed earnestly.
Gu Yue smiled shyly beside him.
"Sit, sit!" The Headmaster gestured to the sofa.
As they settled, he asked eagerly, "Fang Yang—how's your soul power cultivation?"
"I've reached Level 45," Fang Yang replied calmly.
"Level 45?!"
The Headmaster shot to his feet, stunned.
"Remarkable! I knew you'd shine!"
(As a Level 41 Soul Ancestor himself, he felt both pride and awe.)
"I owe much to your guidance, Headmaster," Fang Yang said sincerely, gratitude shining in his eyes.
The Headmaster waved it off, eyes glistening. "Your hard work made this happen. Seeing students like you succeed—that's my greatest joy."
Then—Fang Yang pulled a jade bottle from his storage ring.
"Headmaster—this is for you."
"What's this?" The Headmaster took it, puzzled.
"An elixir I refined. Take it, then meditate—it'll enhance your soul power."
Seeing the Headmaster about to refuse, Fang Yang added quickly, "Please accept it…"
"Alright, alright!" The Headmaster's eyes grew misty. "I'll take it. But promise me—you'll visit often!"
"I will," Fang Yang nodded.
Soon after, he stood, taking Gu Yue's hand. "Headmaster—we must go."
"So soon?" The Headmaster hesitated, reluctant. "Stay a while longer—I've so much to tell you!"
"Next time," Fang Yang smiled apologetically.
With a sigh, the Headmaster walked them out. "Be safe on your way."
---
Leaving the academy, Gu Yue asked softly, "Head back home now?"
"Not yet—one more stop," Fang Yang replied, tightening his grip on her hand.
"Where to?" she pressed, curious.
"Aolai City Spirit Pagoda."
---
At the Pagoda, the grand circular hall stood bright and open, arched doorways leading to unknown depths.
Behind the central counter, a Soul Master stood on duty.
Fang Yang approached. "Is Master Su Tao available?"
The Spirit Master looked up—and gaped.
"L-Lord Fang Yang?! Aren't you in Donghai City?"
"School's on break—I'm visiting," Fang Yang smiled. "Please inform Master Su Tao."
"Right away!" The attendant hurriedly activated his soul-guided communicator.
After a brief exchange, he bowed. "Master Su Tao will be here shortly."
Moments later—rapid footsteps echoed.
Su Tao rushed in, delighted. "Fang Yang! Why didn't you warn me you were coming?"
"Just got back, Uncle Tao," Fang Yang grinned. He gestured to Gu Yue. "This is my girlfriend, Gu Yue."
"Wonderful! Come, come!" Su Tao ushered them into a graceful reception room.
Seated, he asked warmly, "What brings you back, Fang Yang?"
"Just wanted to see everyone," Fang Yang said simply.
They chatted—Su Tao asking about school, training, life in Donghai.
Then—Fang Yang presented two jade bottles.
"Uncle Tao—these are for you."
He explained, "My refined elixirs—they'll boost soul power when meditated upon. The second is for Master Liu Yang."
"I couldn't possibly—" Su Tao began.
"Please take them," Fang Yang insisted.
Finally, Su Tao accepted—deeply moved.
Soon, Fang Yang rose. "We should go, Uncle Tao."
Su Tao walked them to the door. "Travel safely!"
"We will."
With a nod, Fang Yang and Gu Yue stepped back into the Aolai sunlight—hearts full, mission complete.
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