Wovi saluted. "Got it, boss. Today, I blend in. Tomorrow, I dazzle."
Minjun sat up, yawning. "Just don't dazzle inside the room. I need real sleep."
Wuxie chuckled as he pulled off his outer robes and settled onto the bed. The silk sheets were soft, but his body still ached from the trial. Still, a strange peace settled over the room—one filled with bickering, teasing, and warmth.
Outside, the capital buzzed with lights and preparation. The first trial was over.
The sword trial would come next.
But for now—
They slept.
And Wovi snored louder than all of them.
The twilight sky over the Imperial Academy bled gold and crimson as the sun dipped behind the horizon, casting long shadows across the courtyard where hundreds of students now mingled.
The announcement of the Swordsmanship trial had sent a wave of nervous excitement through every academy, and now, the students gathered in anticipation—some forming alliances, others sizing up the competition.
