"So never count on anyone else. Only when your own fists are big enough can you speak with confidence."
Yan Shaozhe spoke earnestly. "This world is that cruel. It has always followed the law of the jungle. The weak are meat for the strong-that is this world's true face.
Shrek Academy used to stand above it all because we were at the top of the food chain. No one dared provoke us, while we could suppress whoever we wanted and devour whoever we pleased."
"I understand, Teacher." Ma Xiaotao nodded firmly.
"But don't put too much pressure on yourself. Focus on cultivating. I believe in your talent. In the near future, you'll reach heights even I will have to look up to. Whether Shrek Academy can rise again rests entirely on you!"
Yan Shaozhe's words were filled with hope for Ma Xiaotao.
"I'll work hard, Teacher," Ma Xiaotao answered resolutely.
Yan Shaozhe stood up. "Go on. You don't need to keep me company. Your room is still there. I often have someone tidy it, so it's clean, too. You haven't been back in a long time. Get some proper rest. You don't need to worry anymore. This is your home. Anyone who wants to hurt you will have to step over my body first."
Ma Xiaotao gave Yan Shaozhe a long look, then slowly nodded. "All right, Teacher. Don't overwork yourself, either. I believe Shrek Academy will weather this crisis and contend for supremacy over the Douluo Continent once more, with the bearing of a king."
"Hehe, I'm looking forward to that day, too."
Yan Shaozhe seemed amused by Ma Xiaotao's innocence.
After Ma Xiaotao returned to her quarters, she looked at the familiar surroundings. Her eyes were as still as an ancient well, utterly unmoved.
She was no