...

When Jiang Zhen and the others returned to Skywater Academy, it was already afternoon.

The academy was shaded by luxuriant trees. From time to time, groups of girls in blue uniforms passed by. When they saw Jiang Zhen and the three unfamiliar women behind him—each possessing a distinct air yet all breathtakingly beautiful—they could not help casting curious and astonished looks their way.

Shui Bing'er, Xue Wu, and Yu Hairou bid Jiang Zhen farewell before returning to their dormitory to rest or seeking out Mizuki to report what had happened.

Jiang Zhen, meanwhile, led Bi Ji, Zi Ji, and Jiang Lingxi straight to the secluded courtyard where Lan Xi, Dugu Yan, and Ye Lingling usually cultivated and lived.

The courtyard had originally been quiet and secluded, but perhaps because of Lan Xi, Blue Silver Grass had grown all over it, filling the place with vigorous life.

Lan Xi was sitting on the stone stool in the courtyard, quietly absorbing the sunlight and Life Aura. Dugu Yan was practicing delicate control over her Jade Phosphor Poison Dragon Martial Soul, while Ye Lingling silently meditated nearby.

Sensing Jiang Zhen's presence, pure joy appeared on Lan Xi's little face. She ran over like a happy fawn. "Big Brother! You're back!"

Jiang Zhen looked at the already graceful Lan Xi before him, and a hint of gentleness flashed through his eyes.

He extended his hand, instinctively wanting to ruffle her hair, but halfway there, he changed direction and lightly patted her slender yet sturdy shoulder instead. He smiled. "Mm, I'm back. I also brought you some new companions."

His gaze shifted behind him, and he introduced them to the three girls. "Come, get acquainted. This is Bi Ji, and this is Zi Ji. The two of them are... special instructors I invited. And this