"Sorry to have kept you waiting."
A steady, resolute voice rang out, and the students in the small grove all turned toward the hillside.
There stood a young man wearing the uniform of Nuoding Junior Soul Master Academy. He was tall and straight-backed. Though his face still retained some youthful immaturity, he already had the bearing of an adult. He was at least half a head taller than Xiao Wu, fairly handsome as well, with a faintly resolute and daring light in his eyes.
What drew the most attention was his unusual head of short red hair, brilliant as blood. From afar, as it fluttered in the wind, it was hard not to wonder whether a blazing flame was burning atop his head.
"Boss Xiao, you're here!"
At the sight of the young man's arrival, the leader of the upperclassmen immediately cried out in delight.
"Boss Xiao!"
"Boss Xiao, it really is him!"
"Gasp, he seems to have gotten stronger again..."
The other upperclassmen soon erupted into commotion as well, discussing the fiery red-haired young man, Boss Xiao. Their faces all bore reverence and admiration.
"So you're Boss Xiao?"
Xiao Wu raised her head slightly and looked at the red-haired youth. He was clearly tall and faintly muscular, exuding strength without appearing bulky or fat.
"That's me."
Boss Xiao cast his gaze upon Xiao Wu, the leader of the Work-Study Students, and nodded.
"I didn't expect that, in my final year at Nuoding Academy, I'd still encounter a freshman like you. You really are extraordinarily gifted."
"But... why is there a scent on you that differs from ordinary people? Hmm, strange."
He tilted his head as he looked at Xiao Wu, a trace of confusion appearing in his eyes.
"!"
Xiao Wu's heart tightened as she studied Boss Xiao. *Could