The arrival of the various factions

The group went to a restaurant outside Skywater Academy and booked a private room.

The dishes soon arrived. Though not as refined as Xiao Yun's own cooking, they were local specialties with a distinctive flavor.

During the meal, Shui Ruoyan briefly recounted what had happened at the meeting.

The Four Great Academies had agreed to give their all in the challenge the day after tomorrow. The exact order of their fighters and their tactics still needed further discussion.

Xiao Yun listened attentively, nodding from time to time.

He did not volunteer to help, knowing that Shui Ruoyan and the others needed to prove themselves.

After the meal, Shui Ruoyan stood and addressed the three girls. "It's getting late. You should head back."

Shui Yue'er pouted, looking at Xiao Yun reluctantly.

Shui Bing'er remained composed, pulling her younger sister to her feet to say goodbye.

Yao Zi stood as well. Glancing at Xiao Yun, she said softly, "See you next time, Brother Xiao."

Xiao Yun nodded. "See you."

The three girls left, leaving only Xiao Yun, Shui Ruoyan, and Yao Yuerou, who had been quietly eating all this time, in the private room.

Shui Ruoyan looked at Yao Yuerou with a faint, teasing smile. "Well? Aren't you leaving?"

Yao Yuerou answered without hesitation, "I'm staying at your place tonight."

Shui Ruoyan raised an eyebrow. "I only have one bed."

Yao Yuerou glanced at Xiao Yun, her face flushing slightly, but she did not back down. "Then... we'll squeeze in."

Shui Ruoyan opened her mouth to say something, but ultimately only sighed.

She turned to Xiao Yun, and the amusement in his eyes told her he had no intention of refusing.

The three settled the bill, left the restaurant, and headed for Shui Ruoyan's apartment.

Night deepened, and moonlight shimmered across Phoenix