Back at Shengjing Academy.
Wu Tie, Shadow, and Lan Yue kept at least three paces between themselves and Lin Mu.
They kept their heads down, not daring to say a word.
Ding Huohuo walked beside Lin Mu. Several times, she tried to thank him, but she didn't know what to say.
"Chief, we..."
She had just started to speak when Lin Mu raised a hand to stop her.
"Go to the Holy Temple first and take your second-class advancement quests."
Lin Mu's tone was calm.
"Huh? Aren't you going to turn in your quest?"
Wu Tie asked instinctively.
Lin Mu didn't answer. He simply took out his phone.
Ding Huohuo tugged at Wu Tie and gave him a look, signaling him to keep quiet.
The four of them bowed respectfully to Lin Mu.
Only then did they turn and head unsteadily toward the Holy Temple in the Back Mountain.
"Teacher Mu."
Lin Mu called Mu Wanqing first.
"Lin Mu? What is it?"
Mu Wanqing's voice was as brisk as ever.
"Oh, it's nothing major."
Lin Mu sounded as casual as if he were asking about the weather.
"I've just completed my second-class advancement quest."
There was a five-second silence on the other end.
Only the crackle of static confirmed that the call was still connected.
"What... did you say?"
Mu Wanqing's voice held a hint of disbelief.
"I said I've gathered all three materials. I'm heading to the Holy Temple now to turn in the quest."
Lin Mu patiently repeated himself.
"...Wait right there!"
Mu Wanqing shouted those three words, then ended the call with a sharp click.
Lin Mu shrugged and dialed another number.
"Who is this?"
Principal Zhou Pingxia's booming voice came through the receiver.
"Principal, it's Lin Mu."
"Oh, Lin Mu! Why aren't you getting ready for