Each harboring their own thoughts, the three chatted idly as they walked. Before they knew it, more than an hour had slipped quietly past.
Tree-lined paths, martial training plazas, and cultivation courtyards fell behind them, and an imposing, timeworn pavilion of blue bricks and dark roof tiles slowly appeared at the edge of their vision.
This pavilion was Pingtian Academy's renowned Folly Tower.
The building exuded antique elegance and solemn dignity. Its tiered eaves swept upward at the corners, its carved ornamentation was ancient and substantial, and an aura of book-steeped tranquility surrounded it. Entirely unlike the Martial Hall's fierce, killing edge, it revealed a profound foundation of learning.
When they reached Folly Tower, two middle-aged men wearing academy steward uniforms stood before its entrance. They were responsible for guarding the building, verifying disciples' identities, and controlling access.
Yang Jing and his two companions stepped forward, each taking out their Outer Academy disciple token and handing it over for inspection.
A steward accepted the tokens and examined them carefully. After confirming that all three were indeed Outer Academy disciples, he raised a hand to let them through.
After offering their thanks, the three stepped into Folly Tower.
The interior was completely cut off from the clamor outside. There was neither the thunder of force from the Martial Hall nor the noisy chatter of disciples, only peace and quiet.
A faint scent of ink mingled with the mellow fragrance of old paper and books. It refreshed the senses, instantly settling the mind and washing away restlessness.
Folly Tower had nine floors in total, each different from the others.
Under Pingtian Academy's rules, Outer Academy disciples had limited access and could only consult texts on the first and second floors. Only Inner Courtyard and Upper Academy disciples could enter the third floor