That day was the June monthly examination.
Early in the morning, the Immortal Academy notified everyone to gather at the drill ground. This time, they were arranged by dormitory rather than class, so Wang Qi stood beside Wu Fan.
Though it was only early morning, July's sun was already scorching. Wang Qi held one hand over his forehead to block the blinding glare while looking around. "This is a written exam, right? How are we supposed to write the papers out here? Don't you think?"
He nudged Wu Fan beside him with his elbow. Wu Fan helplessly put down his book and raised his head. Dark circles hung heavily beneath his eyes, and his face was full of worry. "I suppose immortal arts are wondrous... Wang Qi, you should review too."
"A real top student never crams before an exam."
"Not everyone is like you! I need to study!"
"If you listened carefully in class, wouldn't that be enough?"
"Wang Qi, you have absolutely no right to say that! As far as I know, you took leave for more than half a month..."
"Ahahaha..."
Wang Qi's laughter drew the displeasure of the others. Looking around, he found that nine out of every ten people nearby were holding books and reviewing. Seven of them looked exhausted, clearly having stayed up all night cramming. Wang Qi carelessly hooked an arm around Wu Fan's shoulders. "Hey, where are you stuck? Let me see."
Wu Fan jumped. "Wang Qi, what are you...?"
Wang Qi shot him a sidelong glance. "You don't trust me?"
Wu Fan shuddered. "I wouldn't dare, I wouldn't dare... I do trust your ability, Wang Qi. It's just... everyone is sharpening their swords at the very edge of battle..."
"I don't need to. Dilly-dallying is pointless."
Wu Fan raised his book