After a few days of rest, Xiao Yan had buried all his emotions deep within his heart. He walked toward the gate that symbolized his family and hometown.
Every step felt as though he were treading on the shadows of his past, filled with both the reluctance of parting and anticipation for the future.
Yet just as he was about to step through the gate, several familiar figures were already waiting outside.
At their head stood Gu Xun'er, still dressed in an elegant, pale blue-green dress, her beauty refined and beyond compare.
Beside her stood the graceful Xiao Mei, a trace of complicated emotion on her face, and Xiao Ning, his arms folded across his chest and his expression rather unfriendly.
Seeing Xiao Yan emerge, Xiao Ning gave a soft snort first and curled his lip.
"Don't get the wrong idea. We didn't come specifically to see you off. We're setting out for Jia Nan Academy too. It's just a coincidence."
Xiao Mei nodded in agreement, though her gaze unconsciously lingered for a moment on Xiao Yan's face, which had regained its resolve.
"I know."
Xiao Yan answered calmly, looking past the two of them toward Xun'er, who had remained silent throughout.
The sight of her stirred his heart, but a hint of relief followed. Fortunately, Xiao Yi, who would never be satisfied until the whole world was in chaos, had not come along. If he were here, heaven only knew what kind of farce this farewell would become, leaving chicken feathers scattered everywhere.
After a brief silence, they exchanged only simple farewells. Xun'er nodded gently to Xiao Yan, her feelings complicated and unreadable, but ultimately said nothing more.
Then she turned with Xiao Mei and Xiao Ning and headed in the opposite direction from Xiao Yan. Their destination was