Mu En's gaze swept over Long Jinyu and Ma Xiaotao. The warm yet perceptive look in his eyes made both of their hearts skip a beat.
His aged fingers tapped lightly on the armrest, as if weighing the most prudent arrangement.
"By the way, Jin Yu."
Mu En's gaze settled on Long Jinyu.
"You bear the Nine-Colored Dragon Emperor Martial Soul, a talent unseen since ancient times. This is a blessing for Shrek and a tremendous opportunity for you. However..."
His tone shifted, taking on a hint of a senior's earnest concern.
"You said you came from the secluded 'Nine-Colored Dragon Valley' in the Far North, cut off from the world. Having suddenly entered the world, you may find yourself at odds with the current state of the continent, the Soul Master system, and even the details of ordinary life."
"A towering building rises from the ground. Without a solid foundation, even the mightiest power will not carry you to the peak."
Long Jinyu understood. He replied respectfully, "My teacher is right. I truly know very little about the world as it is today."
He wasn't lying. Although he had knowledge of the original story to draw on, he still needed to catch up on the specific theories of Douluo Continent, everyday life, and the latest developments across the continent.
Mu En nodded in satisfaction, admiration for a "promising young talent" in his eyes, along with a trace of a "wily old fox's" calculation.
"Therefore, I think you should first join the new students' class in the outer court and attend basic theory lessons for seven days."
"First, you can systematically learn the basics of Soul Masters, the history of the continent, the customs of various nations, and general knowledge about Soul Tools, making up for what you missed while living in seclusion. Second..."
His gaze seemed to casually sweep over Ma Xiaotao, who was listening with her ears pricked up.
"You can also spend time with students your own age, experience the academy's atmosphere, and learn how to fit into a group. That will greatly benefit your growth."
"The new students' class in the outer court? For seven days?"
Ma Xiaotao couldn't help cutting in, her phoenix eyes widening as she looked at Mu En.
"Elder Mu, he... Does someone with his strength really need to go to the new students' class?"
She had seen for herself the terrifying strength he'd displayed when he effortlessly suppressed her Evil Fire. And now they wanted him to study theory with a bunch of little brats with one or two rings? Wasn't that just picking on them?
Mu En smiled meaningfully. "Xiaotao, you're mistaken. Theory is the foundation, and it mustn't be taken lightly. Besides..."
He looked at Ma Xiaotao, his tone carrying a hint of "you know what I mean."
"Jin Yu has just arrived and knows nothing about the academy's surroundings, class schedule, or even the location of the cafeteria. Someone will have to... well, look after him and show him around. As an inner-court senior and fellow disciple, you're the obvious choice."
Yan Shaozhe immediately caught on. His face lit up with an admiring smile that said, "Teacher, you're truly far-sighted." He quickly chimed in:
"Teacher is wise! Theory classes are indeed important! Xiaotao, you need some time to recuperate, and you shouldn't train too intensely right after your Evil Fire was suppressed. Why don't you... put in a little effort and go to class with Jin Yu?"
"First, you can review what you already know and learn something new. Second, it'll make it easier for you to 'look after' your junior disciple and introduce him to the academy, so he doesn't get lost. Don't worry, the lessons will be a piece of cake for you!"
He sounded perfectly reasonable, but his eyes kept darting between Long Jinyu and Ma Xiaotao. His meaning couldn't have been clearer: he was creating a chance for them to spend all their time together!
The master and disciple's one-two act left Ma Xiaotao speechless. She wanted to object, but couldn't think of a strong enough reason.
Mu En's reasoning was indeed sound, and Yan Shaozhe's "suggestion" seemed reasonable, too.
All she could do was glare at Long Jinyu, cheeks puffed out, as if to say, "This is all your fault!" Then she awkwardly turned away, effectively accepting the arrangement.
Long Jinyu had taken in every bit of the "meaningful exchange" between Mu En and Yan Shaozhe. He couldn't help laughing inwardly. System, they're practically flinging their abacus beads in my face.
[The system gloated: Host, accept your fate. Matchmaking marriages—cross that out, the camaraderie of fellow students—is a Shrek specialty. But... a few days of lessons in the outer court should be nice, too. It'll help this system collect more information.] "Is that really what you're focusing on?!"
Seeing that Ma Xiaotao hadn't put up much of a fight, Mu En struck while the iron was hot and continued making arrangements. As for Long Jinyu's opinion? That didn't matter!
"As for your lodgings..."
He paused, his gaze once again gliding slowly between Long Jinyu and Ma Xiaotao.
"Jin Yu has just joined the academy, and the secret of his background must be kept carefully guarded. The outer court is crowded, with too many eyes and ears. It may not be the safest place."
"Besides, according to the academy's old rules, inner-court disciples should have a quiet place to stay on Sea God Island. It wouldn't be appropriate for him to live in the outer court."
He turned toward Ma Xiaotao, his tone gentle and concerned. "Though the Evil Fire in Xiaotao's body has been suppressed for now, she'll still need time to recover and stabilize her foundation. She also needs a quiet, undisturbed environment, so Jin Yu can protect and assist her whenever necessary."
Yan Shaozhe smoothly picked up where he left off, smiling as brightly as if he'd won the lottery. "Teacher! That vacant 'Phoenix Perch Pavilion' on Sea God Island couldn't be more suitable! It's peaceful, rich in Soul Power, and has its own courtyard, with the nourishment of a Golden Tree branch's shade! There's plenty of room, too. The upstairs and downstairs spaces let them train and live without getting in each other's way. Perfect!"
He made a point of stressing that they wouldn't "get in each other's way," but everyone knew the real point was that they'd be staying in the same courtyard.
"Phoenix Perch Pavilion?"
Long Jinyu rolled the name around on his tongue and glanced at Ma Xiaotao without thinking.
When Ma Xiaotao heard the name and recalled the double arrangement of sharing a class and a residence, how could she not understand what the master and disciple were up to? Her ears turned scarlet in an instant. She whirled around to face Yan Shaozhe.
"Teacher! You... you two..."
She wanted to protest, but the pavilion's surroundings and the nourishment from the Golden Tree really would help her immensely. And she still needed Long Jinyu to "put out the fire" whenever her Evil Fire flared up. For a moment, she couldn't think of a reason to refuse, and could only stomp her foot in frustration.
Mu En nodded with a smile, very pleased with Yan Shaozhe's arrangement. "Mm, Phoenix Perch Pavilion really is the most suitable place. The phoenix nests only in the parasol tree and drinks only from sweet springs."
"This pavilion can resonate with Xiaotao's Phoenix Martial Soul, which will greatly benefit her."
"Jin Yu bears the aura of the Dragon Emperor. A dragon coiling as a phoenix roosts is an auspicious omen, too. It's settled."
Once again, Mu En used lofty talk of "Martial Soul cultivation" and "auspicious omens" to shut down any possible objections, dressing up the plan to have them live together in a sacred cloak.
Mu En's gaze swept over Long Jinyu's exceptionally handsome face and his distinctive bearing.
Then he thought of his astonishing Nine-Colored Dragon Emperor Martial Soul and the tenderness he'd shown while saving Ma Xiaotao...
If they really put him in an ordinary dormitory in the outer court, wouldn't he send a group of young girls swooning?
Shrek's atmosphere was free and open, but any ensuing commotion—or attracting certain factions' attention to him too soon—would be a bad thing!
It was safer to keep him on Sea God Island, right under their noses, and beside... well, the short-tempered Xiaotao, who could keep things under control!
Mu En stroked his beard, his accomplishments hidden deep.
"Yes, Teacher! I'll take them over and get them settled right away!" Yan Shaozhe beamed, almost happier than if he'd found a Hundred Thousand Year Soul Bone.
"Mm, go ahead."
"Jin Yu, the remaining arrangements will be taken care of. Settle in, clear your mind, and take things one step at a time," Mu En advised warmly.
Long Jinyu bowed deeply, his bearing composed. "I'm grateful for your guidance, Teacher. I'll remember your words, devote myself to cultivation, and live up to your expectations."
[You've officially boarded the pirate ship~]
"Shut up..."
"Thirty years east of the river, thirty years west of the river... Don't bully a poor young man!"
[6...]
Before long, Yan Shaozhe led the two of them into the depths of Sea God Island. They passed several lush groves, and an elegant, exquisite two-story villa appeared before them.
The villa was built from warm-toned stone and fragrant spiritwood, its roof covered in green tiles. Its overall style was both dignified and unpretentious, without sacrificing its refinement.
The spacious courtyard was planted with exotic flowers and rare herbs. A clear stream wound past it, and the air was rich with a gentle vitality. Near the villa, in particular, they could feel the warm life force that came from the Golden Tree.
Above the front gate hung a simple wooden plaque, three characters carved into it in bold, powerful strokes: "Phoenix Perch Pavilion."
"Here you go. This is where you two will... ahem, make your home from now on!"
Yan Shaozhe took out two keys that gave off faint spatial ripples and handed one to Long Jinyu and the other to Ma Xiaotao.
"The keys have small spatial arrays. Once they recognize you as their owners, only you can open the entrance. Everything you need for daily life is inside. If you need anything, just ask the supply office, or come straight to me."
He patted Long Jinyu on the shoulder, waggling his eyebrows as he lowered his voice. "Little junior brother, make the most of this chance! The one who lives closest gets the moon first! Remember, Xiaotao's a little quick-tempered, but she has a good heart. Keep it up!"
Long Jinyu: "..."
Then he turned to Ma Xiaotao and said with complete seriousness, "Xiaotao, Jin Yu doesn't know his way around yet, so do look after him in his daily life. And be sure to help each other with your cultivation! I'll be off. Don't be late for class when term starts in a few days!"
Ma Xiaotao: "..."
Without waiting for Ma Xiaotao to blow up, he took off as if his feet were greased, leaving behind a dashing—or rather, fleeing—figure.
Ma Xiaotao glared in the direction Yan Shaozhe had vanished and gave a huffy little fist pump. Then she turned and glared fiercely at Long Jinyu, as if ready to take out all her anger on him.
She pushed open the courtyard gate and stormed inside, leaving him with a stiff, warning-filled declaration:
"I'm taking the second floor! Don't set foot up there without my permission! The top of the stairs is the line you don't cross! If you dare cross it... I'll show you what real Phoenix Flame feels like!"
Her threat was plenty intimidating...
Too bad the red tips of her ears and her slightly flustered steps betrayed her lack of confidence.
She raced upstairs and slammed the door shut with a bang.
Long Jinyu shook his head helplessly and muttered, "Is that really necessary? It's not like I'm some terrifying beast."
As a well-behaved student from twenty-first-century Blue Star, he considered respecting teachers, following the law, and respecting other people's privacy and personal space to be basic decency. Even if Ma Xiaotao hadn't said anything, he would have respected her boundaries.
The afternoon sunlight filtered through the leaves and fell into the courtyard, casting dappled shadows and making the place seem especially peaceful.
Long Jinyu took a deep breath of the air, rich with the breath of life, and felt some of the exhaustion from his journey to this world melt away.
He stepped into the villa's first floor.
The living room was spacious and bright, its simple, comfortable furnishings exuding understated luxury. The villa had everything he could need, including a kitchen, a quiet cultivation room, and a study.
He took a quick look around and found that, just as Yan Shaozhe had said, it had everything they needed for daily life.
But... after all the upheaval of the day—traveling to another world, fighting, saving someone, and meeting a big shot—he'd used up a lot of energy. His stomach had already started to growl against his will.
He glanced up at the stairs leading to the second floor, then at the sun hanging high outside the window.
Long Jinyu walked to the foot of the stairs, cleared his throat, and called up toward the second floor in a voice that was neither too loud nor too soft, with a hint of negotiation:
"Senior sister!"
The upstairs seemed to go quiet for a moment.
Long Jinyu called up again, his tone straightforward, with a hint of earnestness about this "bread-and-butter issue."
"Um... it's lunchtime. Should we figure out something to eat here in Phoenix Perch Pavilion, or... go to the academy cafeteria?"
"I really don't know where the cafeteria is or how things work there. I'll have to trouble you to point me in the right direction."
He made sure to clearly emphasize "I really don't know" and "I'll have to trouble you."
It reminded her that he was a "new student" and tossed the ball back into Ma Xiaotao's court.
The call seemed to dispel the last faint traces of awkwardness and tension in the air.
Inside the second-floor room, Ma Xiaotao was leaning against the door, trying to steady her heartbeat and cursing herself for being so useless as she wondered how she was supposed to face her junior disciple, who was now her "roommate and classmate."
Then that thoroughly practical "lunch question" hit her out of nowhere.
She instinctively touched her own equally empty stomach. Her embarrassment and awkwardness were suddenly washed away by a question so plain and simple.
"This mysterious 'Nine-Colored Dragon Emperor' junior disciple... maybe he's not so bad after all? At least he knows he needs to eat?"
She pouted at the door and tried to maintain a cool tone, but her voice was clearly a little softer than before and carried a hint of awkwardness.
"...Got it! Stop shouting! ...Wait there! I'll change and come down!"
After a pause, she added another sentence, as if to emphasize who was in charge.
"...We're going to the cafeteria! I'll show you the way, so you don't starve to death on the island and leave me to deal with your corpse!"
Downstairs, Long Jinyu scratched his head as he heard the clearly blustering response, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly.
"Looks like Senior Xiaotao... likes it firm, but likes it soft even more... Uh, no. She likes 'food.'"
While he waited, he leaned against the wall and looked around the temporary "new home" he shared with Ma Xiaotao. His thoughts wandered ahead to the inner-court life he was about to enter.
"Phoenix Perch Pavilion... so our life together starts now...?"
"Wait, that's not the point!"
"Mu En arranged for me to join the new students' class in the outer court... and Yan Shaozhe even insisted that Ma Xiaotao go with me... Is this a two-in-one deal: a 'study companion' and a 'watchdog'?"
"But... the outer court sounds good. Just like the system said, it'll be a chance to observe Huo Gua up close... No, Xiao Yuhao."
"But... I really don't wanna study! I just finished the college entrance exam. Shouldn't I get to relax for a while?!"
"..."
"Come to think of it, who does Ma Xiaotao usually hang out with in the inner court...?"
Long Jinyu couldn't help mulling it over, drawing on fragments of his memories from his previous life.
"With her temper, she's like a powder keg ready to blow at the slightest spark. And her Evil Fire goes out of control from time to time... can she even have friends?"
He recalled the details from the original story.
"Among the Seven Monsters, there's Ling Luochеn, that ice-cold beauty... Ice against the Evil Fire Phoenix... Their elements clash. They're natural enemies!"
"Xixi seems to get along well with Ling Luochеn. Birds of a feather flock together, so she probably keeps Ma Xiaotao at arm's length, too..."
"Those guys? Dai Yueheng and the others either fight with her or respect her strength. I doubt they're close. And they're men, after all. No matter how close they are..."
He rubbed his chin and continued to think.
"Seems like... only Senior Sister Zhang Lexuan is left? Zhang Lexuan has a gentle, generous nature and is the inner court's top student. She should be able to put up with her, right? But they don't really say much about how close they are... Tsk, this is giving me a headache."
"Man... when you add it all up, is Ma Xiaotao basically a 'loner' in the inner court?"
"Top-tier strength, a fiery temper, dangerous powers, and maybe even an 'stay away from me' aura..."
"No wonder she valued Shrek so much in the original story and treated the academy like home... Because outside the academy, she might not have anyone she could really call close to her..."
"Thinking about it that way... the pain and despair she felt when her Evil Fire flared up before... seem even more..."
At that thought, Long Jinyu felt a strange tightness in his chest. He looked toward the stairs again, a complicated look in his eyes.
"System, do you think she might be... lonely?" he asked without thinking.
[...Host, I get you. Heh heh heh~]
[Booting up—]
[Playing audio—]
It was the chuunibyou declaration Long Jinyu had made earlier.
[..."Tragedy of the Phoenix," let me... rewrite the ending!]
Long Jinyu: "???"
"Seriously, I just want to help her out. Don't let your imagination run wild..."
[Yeah, yeah, yeah~]
Just then, footsteps sounded on the stairs.
Ma Xiaotao came down.
She had changed into a clean, sharp red outfit. Her fiery-red hair fell loosely around her shoulders, swaying gently as she moved.
Some of the paleness had faded from her face, and a little color had returned to her cheeks, but the sharp, confident edge in her eyes remained.
But when she met Long Jinyu's dazzled, slightly vacant stare, her eyes flickered. She quickly looked away, lifting her chin and putting on a fierce expression.
"What are you looking at? Aren't you coming? Want to starve?" Her voice was louder than it had been upstairs, as if she were trying to give herself courage.
"Coming right now. Sorry for the trouble, senior sister. Please show me the way."
Long Jinyu looked away and smiled gently, harmlessly, as if those thoughts about her being a "loner" had never crossed his mind.
Ma Xiaotao snorted and walked out of Phoenix Perch Pavilion first.
Sunlight fell on the tips of her fiery-red hair, where golden flecks danced.
Long Jinyu followed half a step behind, watching her straight-backed figure. The tightness in his chest faded into a faint sigh, and something else... a protective feeling he couldn't quite explain to himself?
"Forget it. At least now she doesn't have to face the Evil Fire alone."
"As for being friends and all that... whatever."
"Hey." Ma Xiaotao spoke up suddenly as she walked ahead, without even turning around.
"When we get to the cafeteria, don't go looking around everywhere. Stick close to me. The inner courtyard is huge, and it's easy to get lost. I don't want to have to search the whole place for you."
Her tone was still as hard as ever, but the content... could that count as a list of things to watch out for?
"Sure, Senior." Long Jinyu readily went along with her.
"And another thing."
Ma Xiaotao paused, lowering her voice a little,
"...Back at Phoenix Perch Pavilion... everything I said... don't read too much into it! And don't you dare... spread it around!"
Long Jinyu froze for a moment, then realized she meant the "second-floor restricted area" and her threat to "burn him to ashes." A flicker of amusement crossed his eyes, but his tone was utterly sincere:
"Don't worry, Senior. My memory's not very good. What happened just now... did anything happen? I only remember you agreeing to take me to the cafeteria for a meal."
Ma Xiaotao: "..."
"You sure have a silver tongue!"
She abruptly quickened her pace, and the faint blush that had just faded from the tips of her ears seemed poised to make a comeback.
Watching the fiery red figure ahead of him hurry along like a cat whose tail had been stepped on, Long Jinyu found his mood inexplicably lifting.
He quickened his pace to catch up. The sunlight was just right, the breeze was gentle, and life on a campus in another world didn't seem... all that bad after all?
Before you continue