After arranging for Poison Douluo to serve as Shrek's honorary advisor, Ao Yin set off alone on the return journey to Blue Tyrant Academy.
Dugu Bo did not accompany him. Concerned about his granddaughter Dugu Yan's health, he intended to return first to examine the toxins in her body and help her recuperate, then join them at the academy a few days later.
Sunlight spilled over the academy's tree-lined avenue, and a gentle breeze stirred the leaves, dappling the path with light and shadow.
Everyone from Shrek was already waiting at the academy gates, standing together as they gazed eagerly into the distance.
The moment Ao Yin's tall, straight figure appeared at the far end of their vision, everyone's eyes lit up.
That long-missed figure—a reunion after half a year apart!
The longing they had held back for so long burst forth. Everyone surged forward, surrounding Ao Yin, their faces brimming with delight and excitement.
After half a year of missing him day and night, they had finally welcomed him home!
"Ao Yin! You're finally back! We've missed you so much!"
A clear, sweet voice rang out. Xiao Wu was the most excited of them all.
With light steps, she sprang forward and threw herself straight at Ao Yin, clinging to him with her whole body.
Ao Yin reacted swiftly, stepping half a pace forward to brace himself before reaching out and catching Xiao Wu securely in his arms.
Had he been even a moment slower, her reckless leap would have missed him entirely, sending her crashing to the ground.
After more than half a year apart, Xiao Wu had shed her former childishness. Her figure had grown more graceful and lovely, her expressive features more captivating. She had blossomed into a young woman, more beautiful than ever.
Feeling her