"University Exchange? That's the event where the best new students from the Main Campus fight?" TuTu asked the Principal interestedly.
"Yes, that's the one. But there's a small age adjustment. Those who transferred to the Main Campus from Azure on the first or second year can participate; the rest are cut." The Principal nodded to her and added clarifications.
"You mentioned it to us for a reason?" Jiao Jiao asked, brushing her hair and flashing a smile.
"Nothing gets past you." The Principal lifted the corners of his mouth but paused for a second before continuing, as if choosing words.
"You see, this year the event is at the Imperial University. And last year we lost quite disgracefully... And this year... I've heard rumors of a strong newbie from the Mu Clan in their ranks..." He trailed off.
"So, you're not confident in the team from the current Azure Campus graduates and want to add us to guarantee our university's victory in these competitions? Won't the other universities laugh at you?" I asked interestedly. Didn't think Director Xiao was that shameless.
"Why would they laugh? You fit the age and just transferred to the Main Campus— all by the rules. And that you're at High level while your opponents are only at Middle... well, they should have cultivated harder. Their own fault for lagging." Stroking his chin, this unembarrassed old man smiled.
"You got me, nothing to say. But about our participation, I have words." Seeing my lips curl up, the Principal's affable mood vanished.
"I heard participation in this University Exchange is strictly voluntary... and I promised my girls a vacation after tough training..." I started shuffling my foot casually, eyeing the office decor. Oh, what a nice Kettle!
"Didn't you want to gain as much reputation as possible? Here's a perfect chance!" The Principal tried to leave me empty-handed. But I'm no pushover!
"Oh, come on. My family's comfort matters more. And I'll grab plenty of reputation competing for the National Team..." I hugged my girls by the shoulders, making them blush in front of the Principal.
"Eh, what do you want?" The Principal sighed dejectedly for the umpteenth time and finally gave in, realizing I could really bail, meaning the girls wouldn't go either.
In fact, one of us would suffice to win those competitions, but since we come as a package, he had to compromise. He realistically assessed the odds of driving a wedge between us. And souring ties with the best young mages wasn't worth it.
"Don't worry, Principal. I won't ask for anything excessive. I care about our university's fate too and want our team to crush them. For Mingzhu! For the common people! For my late parents, so they'd be proud!" The more fervently I spoke, the tenser the old man before me got. Even my girls started looking at me oddly. What? I really am a patriot! My intentions are pure! All for the world's good!
"Get to the point." Rubbing his forehead, Director Xiao eyed me tiredly. Eh, and I came with all my heart...
"As I said, nothing excessive. Next year I'll go to the Ancient Capital on business, and I'd like you as my escort, Principal. Just for a week. Since I warned you so far in advance, you can squeeze it into your busy schedule." I smiled innocently, acting like a model, modest boy. But it somehow alarmed the Principal.
"Why me there? I know the city well enough, but there are better guides." He squinted suspiciously. The old man has a good nose for trouble. But he won't refuse without solid reason. And there are none now or until the trip.
"Oh, it's awkward to say. But I heard my dear uncle started business in Xi'an, and as a good nephew, I want to visit and mend ties. But given our not-so-great parting... Anyway, I count on not getting yelled at or spelled in front of such an important figure as you. What do you say? Quick round trip, five minutes' business. Consider it your long-awaited vacation. Majestic city, beautiful students not yet boring to your eye... undead." At the last point, the Principal's eye twitched. No idea why—I listed the main things he'd face. And I didn't even lie. If anything, I understated the attractions...
"Damn it. A won University Exchange is worth it. I can't stand the smug face of the Imperial Principal anymore. So what if I dated his sister once? No reason to keep jabbing at me..." The Principal waved us off and muttered under his breath.
Though why mutter? Our hearing is sharp, sharper than many monsters. Old playboy, damn. No wonder he doesn't get mad at my antics in the Three-Step Tower. I even started doubting if we were really the first...
"When is the University Exchange?" Since we'd reached consensus, I decided to clarify trip details.
"In a week. You'll go with a group led by one teacher. Don't know which yet. Considering who he'll travel with, pick the most penalized one..." The Principal muttered the last bit, but our hearing was still sharp. Why does he dislike us so? We're model students. University pride, by the way!
"Thanks again for your efforts in defending our fine city. Now kindly leave my abode. The recent incident added to my workload." The Principal glanced sadly at the paper stack. Without arguing, we bid quick goodbyes and left.
"Mu Bai, plans for the week?" As we left university grounds heading home, TuTu asked, hugging my arm. Jiao Jiao took the other and listened in.
"Hm, think I'll finally find good plant combos for your battles. After all, I gave Jiao Jiao a Soul Seed, but you're still on old Silver Grass. I'm not heartless enough to halt your battle power growth until summons. You girls rest meanwhile—you earned it." I stroked her hair, and my first girl purred contentedly.
"Thanks, I really appreciate it." Peering into my eyes, TuTu smiled warmly and tiptoed to join our lips.
Eh, how can you flop on the sofa with motivation like that?