Beyond the archway lay a vast campus, its gray-white buildings arranged in orderly clusters across the open grounds.
Every building had a simple yet imposing design.
Rows of cherry trees lined the walkways between the classroom buildings. Though their flowering season had passed, their branches were thick with leaves, swaying gently in the breeze.
Farther away, several taller buildings were still under construction. Tower cranes turned slowly overhead, and the faint figures of workers could be seen climbing.
The entire campus was not yet complete, but it was already impressive enough.
That sense of newness was everywhere.
"Classic. The moment I graduate, the school starts renovating and living the good life."
The newly laid stone paths, freshly painted walls, and newly installed windows were like raw jade just polished, waiting to be carved into something fine.
Lu You entered the campus and followed the signs to the faculty registration office. A short line had already formed inside, with several middle-aged teachers at the front confirming their dormitory assignments with the staff.
He was about to find a spot in line when he suddenly heard a pleasant voice:
"Mr. Lu You?"
He turned to see a young woman in a light-colored business suit approaching him. Her face seemed familiar, but he only remembered her when she came closer.
It was Mayu Matsumoto.
One of the three people who had gone to Fuyuki City with Masaomi Kishimoto to recruit students.
"That's me. Long time no see."
Lu You nodded.
"It hasn't really been that long! I thought you'd arrive a little later."
Mayu Matsumoto's smile was much more natural than before, with a measure of genuine warmth.
She picked up a document envelope from the desk.
"Your house is ready. Here are the keys and the basic documents. Would you like me