After the crowd gradually dispersed, Lan Susu and Lan Luoluo eagerly trotted over to Dai Youheng, their two pairs of beautiful blue eyes brimming with concern and admiration.
"Youheng, you're finally back! Thank you for all your hard work in the tournament!"
"We heard you defeated so many people. You were amazing! You weren't hurt, were you?"
The sisters chattered around Dai Youheng, taking turns speaking and making no attempt to hide their joy or concern.
Dai Youheng could clearly sense the affection in their words, which went beyond ordinary friendship.
Yet as he looked at the lovely, delicate-featured twins before him, his heart remained unmoved.
He did not want to toy with their feelings as he had with Xu Jiujiu's. Deceiving Xu Jiujiu served greater interests and plans, whereas deceiving these innocent sisters seemed to offer no benefit beyond causing them unnecessary pain.
So, after exchanging a few pleasantries, he chose to be honest. He looked at them calmly and said, "Susu, Luoluo, there's something I need to tell you. Before long, I intend to complete the graduation formalities and leave Shrek Academy."
"What? Graduate? Leave the academy?" The smiles on the sisters' faces froze instantly, replaced by shock and disbelief.
"Why, Youheng?" Lan Susu asked urgently. "You performed so brilliantly in the tournament. The academy is bound to make your development a priority. Becoming one of the new Shrek Seven Devils and entering the Inner Court are practically set in stone! Why leave at a time like this?"
Lan Luoluo nodded repeatedly. "Exactly! Staying at the academy will give you the best resources. That's how you'll become even stronger in the future!"
Dai Youheng shook his head. He did not explain his plans or his dealings with the imperial family in detail, merely saying firmly, "This is the