The morning of the last day of April.
Four people and a cat strolled through the campus of the National Defense University. Chen Shu and Qingqing walked in front, heading toward the arena. Chinese banyans lined both sides of the road, so lush that even the midday sun might not reach the ground.
Chen Shu loved this season.
Sophora Summer.
There was plenty of sunshine without too much heat, and cicadas sang without raising a racket. Warm and often clear, it was a lovely season.
"Qingqing."
"Speak."
"I saw someone in a skirt on the way here. It looked pretty good."
"Then take another look."
"You hardly ever wear skirts."
"Get to the point."
"If I win..." Chen Shu drew out the words. "I won't ask you to wear black stockings after all. Wear a skirt for me instead? Short or long, either works."
"..."
Ning Qing lowered her head, her eyes flickering.
"That's not too much to ask!"
"Fine."
"It's a deal."
"Mm."
"Good!"
Chen Shu's expression grew resolute.
The two gradually approached Arena One.
For their battle today, the Military Academy had expanded Arena One to include the former Arenas Two, Three, and Four. It had also enlarged and upgraded the Defensive Array. What lay before them now was an enormous pit sunk into the ground.
To give spectators a better view, the Military Academy had also built a high platform outside the arena, like a small hill.
Many spectators had already arrived.
Not one of the competitors who had taken part in the Arena Match was absent. Several members of the Silly Goose Group spotted Chen Shu from afar. Wu Eiwei stood alone in the distance. Brother Meng had somehow gotten a pass too and stood with Jiang. Among the spectators, Chen Shu also saw many teachers