The next day!
Chen An opened his eyes on the stone bed, stretched lazily, then walked out of the meditation chamber and began washing up.
In truth, at his level of cultivation, he was already spotless and free of dust; there was no need for washing up at all.
But habits could be terrifying things. He still could not resist washing up now and then, or else he would feel uncomfortable all over.
Once he was done, he changed into a brand-new blue-and-white Prefecture Academy student uniform, making him look far more fresh and neat.
He raised a hand and pushed open the courtyard gate. Morning sunlight spilled over him, carrying the faint fragrance of grass and trees.
Listening Waves Courtyard lay in the deepest part of the academy, backed by mountains and facing water, its surroundings peaceful and secluded. It was the finest student residence in all of Chengtian Prefecture Academy.
Those able to live here were all core students of exceptional talent and boundless prospects, or else of distinguished family background.
The bluestone-paved courtyard bordered the rippling Listening Waves Lake. The density of heaven and earth essence here was more than triple that of the outer courtyard. Historically, only students above the fifth level of the Postnatal Realm had been qualified to move in. It was a dual symbol of status and strength throughout Chengtian Prefecture Academy.
Yet the moment he pushed open the gate and stepped outside, Chen An saw several young men in core disciple uniforms standing right in front of it.
At their head was a tall, burly youth built like a bear. His bronze skin gleamed coldly beneath the morning light, veins knotted across his bare forearms, and a mountain-splitting axe that looked exceedingly heavy was strapped to his back.
His gaze was as