That night, after Gu Yuena's departure, the room felt quieter than usual. The night wind whispered softly through the still-open window, carrying the scent of leaves and damp earth. Tianyu sat at the edge of his bed, his eyes staring blankly at the note Na'er had left behind.
"Thank you for everything."
Such a simple sentence felt unbearably heavy.
Qian Renxue floated beside him, her expression slightly more serious than usual. "You really let her go?"
Tianyu exhaled slowly, then stood and walked to the window. The night sky was filled with stars, as if indifferent to the turmoil in his heart.
"Sometimes, letting go is the best way to care," he murmured, more to himself than to Qian Renxue.
Qian Renxue crossed her arms. "You know, you look pretty funny saying that with the face of a six-year-old."
Tianyu raised his tiny hand, trying to look dignified, but it only made his chubby arm look even more adorable. "I may look like this, but don't be mistaken—I can still break a wall with one punch!"
Qian Renxue stifled a laugh, then casually ruffled Tianyu's hair like she was praising a small child. "Oh, of course, of course. Our great little hero~"
They joked for a moment, then fell into a comfortable silence.
Qian Renxue finally sighed. "Alright. But if you miss her later, don't come crying to me."
Tianyu closed his eyes. "I'll remember that."
In the distance, the rustling leaves seemed to hold all the words left unsaid. The night continued on—calm and deep, like an ocean without waves.
The next morning.
Tianyu told his mother about Na'er's departure.
"Na'er... left?" Long Ruyin's voice was soft, filled with surprise. The teacup in her hand trembled slightly, causing tiny ripples on the surface of the liquid.
Tianyu nodded. "Yes, Mom. She left a note… said thank you for everything."
Tianyu's mother stared at her son for a long time, then slowly reached for his small hand. "Are you alright?"
Tianyu smiled, trying to ease her worries. "I'm okay."
"Sometimes… people leave not because they want to, but because they feel they must," she whispered, gently stroking the back of Tianyu's hand.
Tianyu didn't respond. He just lowered his head, staring at his interlaced fingers. His expression was calm, but his eyes were slightly red—like a night still carrying the traces of rain.
Long Ruyin smiled faintly. She gently brushed his hair. "Na'er is a good child. And so are you. I believe, someday, your paths will cross again."
Tianyu nodded softly. "I know…"
"Don't be sad, alright? You've prepared everything you need to leave for the academy with Her Highness, haven't you? Try not to cause trouble with your future roommate, okay?"
"Yes, Mom," Tianyu said, wiping the slight wetness from his eyes. "I've prepared everything. I promise I won't be naughty."
Long Ruyin smiled, her eyes glowing with warmth. "I believe in you. But remember, if anything happens, don't hesitate to tell me or your teacher, alright?"
Tianyu nodded enthusiastically. "I promise! I promise I'll train hard and become the strongest!"
At that moment, a knock came from the front door. Long Ruyin set down her cup and went to open it.
Standing at the door was Xu Jiujiu, accompanied by two people who appeared to be her guards.
"Good morning, Madam Long. I hope we're not too early," Xu Jiujiu greeted with a soft voice and gentle smile.
Long Ruyin returned her smile warmly. "Not at all, Your Highness. Please, come in."
Xu Jiujiu stepped in gracefully, her simple yet elegant dress swaying softly. Her two guards remained outside, giving them space. Her clear eyes immediately settled on Tianyu, who was still sitting at the table.
"Xiao Yu," Xu Jiujiu greeted warmly, "are you ready to go to the academy?"
Tianyu nodded, his innocent face showing a calm expression unusual for a child his age. "Yes, Princess. Thank you for coming to pick me up." His voice was soft but clear.
"How about your belongings? Are they all packed?"
"I've packed everything I need."
Long Ruyin, who had been watching their conversation, felt relieved seeing her son's composed demeanor. "Tianyu is a diligent child. Please take good care of him at the academy, Princess."
"Of course, Madam Long. I promise." Xu Jiujiu bowed respectfully.
Tianyu picked up his things and stood next to Xu Jiujiu. "I'm ready to go, Mom."
Long Ruyin stepped forward, hugged Tianyu, and kissed his forehead. "Take care of yourself, and don't forget to enjoy your time there. I'll miss you."
Tianyu gave a small smile, his eyes—usually full of joy—now shining with determination. "I'll miss you too, Mom."
Xu Jiujiu extended her hand. "Let's go, Xiao Yu. The carriage won't wait."
Tianyu nodded and took her hand. Before leaving, he turned back to his mother one last time. "I'll write you as soon as I arrive."
Long Ruyin nodded, her eyes glistening with tears but still smiling. "I'll be waiting for your letter."
As Tianyu's small footsteps joined the graceful strides of Xu Jiujiu, the house grew quiet again, the air feeling emptier than usual. Long Ruyin stood in the doorway, watching her son's back as he slowly walked away. In her eyes was the strength of a mother hiding her worries behind a loving smile.
At the end of the street, a horse-drawn carriage stood waiting—majestic yet simple. A banner bearing the imperial family's crest fluttered gently in the morning breeze. As they approached, a servant opened the carriage door for Xu Jiujiu and Tianyu.
"Please, Your Highness. Young master," he said politely.
Inside the carriage, velvet-covered seats welcomed them. Xu Jiujiu sat gracefully, then helped Tianyu climb in and sit beside her. As the door closed, the sound of hooves echoed as the carriage slowly pulled away from Tianyu's home.
For a while, neither of them spoke. Tianyu stared out the small window, watching the passing streets. Every house, every tree, every turn etched a new memory into his heart. This wasn't just any journey—it was the beginning of something important.
Xu Jiujiu broke the silence. "Are you nervous?"
Tianyu nodded slightly. "A little. But more... curious."
Xu Jiujiu smiled. "That's good. The academy isn't just a place to learn—it's where you discover who you truly are. And… where you meet people who will change your life."
"Like the Princess?" Tianyu asked, glancing at her.
Xu Jiujiu raised an eyebrow, smiling gently. "Maybe. But I'd prefer if you met friends your own age. Life is better with honest laughter and meaningless little quarrels."
Tianyu only gave a faint smile.
Xing Luo Junior Academy was located quite far from the city center, requiring several hours by carriage. Nearby stood the Star Luo Imperial Academy, All talented soul masters from the Star Luo Empire are usually enrolled there—except for those who manage to enter Shrek Academy.
Both academies were built near a vast forest that served as a vital training ground for students. The forest was home to various soul beasts, with the outer edges relatively safe—inhabited only by low-aged soul beasts. Because of that, teachers often brought their students there for outdoor training sessions, always under close supervision.
A strict warning was always given: never venture deeper into the forest. Within its depths dwelled soul beasts hundreds or even thousands of years old—far beyond what ordinary students could handle.
The carriage rolled on, carrying Tianyu toward a new chapter in his life. Though he didn't yet know what fate awaited him, he was certain that one day, he would stand at the summit.