The school, converted from the Imperial Garden, was picturesque at every turn. The two walked side by side, ignoring the blazing sun as cicadas filled their ears.
"What do you plan to do after graduation?"
"I plan to..." Chen Banxia was about to answer when she frowned. "Why do you sound like a parent?"
"I'm just looking out for you."
"Something feels off..."
"Isn't it normal for a younger brother to care about his older sister?"
"I guess so." Chen Banxia nodded, easily persuaded. "The company I'm helping out at is pretty good, and the pay is decent. After graduation, I plan to stay at the university for further study while continuing to work there, earning some money and experience. I might become a teacher here later."
"Not bad, not bad," Chen Shu said with a nod. "You've got your head on straight."
"?"
Chen Banxia's brows, which had just relaxed, drew together again. No, she couldn't let that slide. After thinking it over, she shot back, "What about you? Have you been studying properly lately?"
"What's it to you?"
"Then why are you meddling in my business!?" Chen Banxia was furious. "I'm the older sister!"
"I care about you..."
"I care about you too!"
"Oh. I haven't been at school these past few days."
"You haven't? Where did you go?"
"Spirit Prefecture."
"What for?"
"I just joined the Spirit Sect."
"You joined the Spirit Sect? You went for the ceremony?" Chen Banxia blinked, looking stunned. "Why didn't you discuss it with me?"
"..."
"Fine, fine... Did you join the inner or outer sect? How are the contract terms?"
"Inner sect."
"Why'd you join the inner sect? It comes with so many rules."
"They asked me to." Chen Shu thought for a moment. "Maybe they want me to succeed the