At night, a crescent moon hung high in the sky. A faint mist drifted over Sea God Lake, shrouding Sea God Island like a paradise on earth.
In the tranquil night, two figures cut through the mist, crossed Sea God Lake, landed on Sea God Island, and walked back toward their residence together.
Ma Xiaotao stretched lazily, loosening her aching muscles and bones, then complained to Ling Bai beside her:
"Being the Director of Education is no job for a human. It's nothing but a bunch of messy little chores. Today, Director Du asked Teacher for an indefinite leave of absence so he could enter seclusion and break through to Titled Douluo. Teacher usually doesn't meddle in the outer courtyard, so from now on, the entire outer courtyard will fall on me."
"Take it easy. Don't overdo it."
Ling Bai offered a reminder. The outer courtyard's affairs were numerous and complicated. With Ma Xiaotao's fiery temper, being able to sit still was no easy feat. This was also Mu En's way of tempering her disposition.
If her temper flared and she caused a huge scene, she might not be able to enter Sea God Pavilion smoothly three years from now.
"Don't worry, I know."
Ma Xiaotao lifted her fair chin slightly. "My status is what it is. Not many people would dare defy me.
"I already warned those outer courtyard teachers that they weren't allowed to expel students on their own and had to prioritize education. They seemed quite obedient. You and Director Du deserve credit for that—you transferred away the toughest thorn in advance."
"You mean Zhou Yi?" Ling Bai recalled. "After working logistics for the Soul Guidance Department for over two years, she seems to want to become a teacher there. But Immortal Dean has refused all along.