By February, Linzhong Lakefront had begun to show traces of green.
Just as Zhu Ziqing described in "Spring," the mountains had grown bright and lush, the water had risen, and the sun's face had turned red.
The ice on the lake had melted away. The Crimson Birds and water buffaloes, absent for most of the winter, began appearing in flocks and herds along both shores again. At noon, young witches and wizards passing by the lake after class would always toss down scraps of bread, cereal, or dried bean curd, adding a little nourishment for the gaunt visitors in the lake.
The start of term was much like the start of spring; both brought vigorous Life Force to the world.
Zheng Qing walked with Ilena across this lively land, brimming with passion inside and out—which was also the main reason his conversation had unknowingly drifted off course.
Fortunately, the young scholarship student promptly realized his mistake and steered the conversation back to the witch.
"Enough about me. What about you?" Zheng Qing's gaze swept over the several thick reference books in Ilena's arms. Curious, he asked, "Are you still researching those ancient talismans? Do you need any help? ... Just buy me two sugar figurines that can perform acrobatics from Shuang Tang Ji. Cane sugar or malt sugar, either is fine. I'm not picky."
Hearing the wizard recommend himself, the Gypsy witch could not help laughing.
"It can't get any cheaper," Zheng Qing said with a troubled expression, emphasizing, "Wizards who have mastered all the Basic Talismans are rare even among First University students."
"Not rare. Unique," the witch corrected with a smile. "As far as I know, among all the students, you are the only one who has mastered every Basic Talisman."
The praise was sincere and unforced, and