Conversation with Mustang

The icy winds of winter swirled around them, and the snowflakes fell relentlessly, turning the world into a frozen wonderland. It was the kind of weather that made even the toughest souls shiver. But for Qin Wentian, standing tall in this relentless storm, there was an unshakeable resolve in his eyes—a resolve forged by the Divine Weapon Pavilion and the Emperor Star Academy.

"Qin Wentian," came a voice from behind, and he turned to see Luo Huan strolling towards him, her face adorned with a mischievous smile. "You're quite the troublemaker, aren't you?"

Qin Wentian chuckled. "I can't help it. Trouble seems to follow me like a loyal dog."

Luo Huan nodded knowingly. "Well, get ready for more trouble. You've made quite a name for yourself today. Those who want to see you six feet under will be lining up."

Qin Wentian glanced around, his eyes scanning the crowd. "Let them come. I've got some winter coats I can spare."

Luo Huan burst into laughter. "You always did have a sharp tongue."

Qin Yao, Qin Wentian's sister, joined them, her expression a mixture of pride and gratitude. "Wentian, thank you for everything."

Qin Wentian playfully pinched her cheeks. "Sister, don't be so formal. We're family."

Qin Yao's smile grew warmer. "I'm proud to call you my brother."

"Enough with the sentimental talk, you two," Luo Huan interjected, "We've got a long road ahead, and I doubt it'll be a smooth one."

Qin Wentian nodded in agreement. "You're right. We have enemies, and they won't be sending us warm wishes."

Luo Huan leaned in, her voice low. "Remember, in the Royal Capital of Chu, even a whisper can be heard by those who shouldn't. They'll have their spies everywhere."

Qin Yao chimed in, her concern evident. "What about Qin Shang and Qin Zhi? Will they be safe?"

Qin Wentian thought for a moment. "The Snowcloud Country's Crown Prince isn't likely to harm them. But just to be safe, let's send them a message to keep a low profile until they can slip out of there."

In the midst of the snowy landscape, they hatched their plans. In Chu Country, there were discreet courier services for just such occasions.

Qin Yao nodded in agreement. "I'll write them a letter as soon as we're back."

With their plans in place, they set off towards the academy. Suddenly, a fluffy blur of fur bounded out of nowhere and into Luo Huan's arms. It was none other than Little Rascal, ever the opportunist for affection.

The snow continued to fall, but the storm within the hearts of these friends had subsided. They knew that the challenges ahead would be daunting, but with each other's support, they were ready to face them head-on. As they left the scene, the onlookers slowly dispersed, leaving behind the snowy serenity of the Royal Capital.

Qin Wentian's name blazed across the nation faster than wildfire. Merely being a 3rd level divine inscriptionist was enough to make him a legend, and the events of today would be on everyone's lips in Chu Country.

When Qin Wentian returned to the Emperor Star Academy, he found the campus adorned with snowflakes, adding a touch of enchantment to the already picturesque scene.

As he glanced at the familiar faces of his fellow students, a wide grin spread across Qin Wentian's face. A year of trials and tribulations had seasoned him, and he felt like a more mature version of himself.

"Look who's back," someone in the distance exclaimed, drawing curious gazes toward Qin Wentian.

Ambling through the snowy paths, two young girls passed by him and slyly stole glances. One of them whispered, "Xing'er, that's none other than Qin Wentian. He defeated Murong Feng in his first year and withstood three blows from Luo Qianqiu."

Xing'er, her eyes filled with curiosity, replied, "He's quite the handsome fellow and is ranked first among the new students. Looks like he might surpass even Senior Luo."

Their voices dwindled as they moved away, leaving Qin Wentian bewildered. How had the news spread so quickly? It seemed like the entire academy already knew of his recent exploits even before he returned.

"You've become quite the celebrity," Luo Huan teased, causing Qin Wentian to chuckle. The commotion he'd caused this time was indeed substantial.

He couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. At just 17, the admiration of his peers was a source of joy. However, he acknowledged that his success was largely due to the unwavering support of the Divine Weapon Pavilion and the Emperor Star Academy. His own abilities, while decent, weren't enough to warrant such attention.

He knew that, someday, he'd shine independently, outshining even the constellations in the night sky. The world was vast, and his journey had only just begun. Chu Country had its share of talents, but what about the world beyond? The possibilities were endless.

"It was just three blows. Senior Luo didn't really go all out. Qin Wentian isn't in the same league as him yet," a mocking voice interrupted.

Qin Wentian turned toward the source, finding a guy and a girl exchanging words.

The girl, panic-stricken, retorted, "Don't be ridiculous. Qin Wentian has only been here for a year. You can't compare them like that; it's unfair."

The guy, wearing a scowl, shot a disdainful look at Qin Wentian. "Maybe you're overestimating him."

Qin Wentian shrugged off their conversation, disinterested. Cradling Little Rascal, he continued along the snow-covered path, unfazed by their comments.

"That girl earlier seemed to have quite the crush on you, making the guy beside her green with envy," Luo Huan remarked.

Qin Wentian chuckled and shook his head. He was unfazed by such minor matters; after all, he couldn't control how others perceived him.

As news of Qin Wentian's return spread, speculation buzzed through the air. Would his return escalate the conflict with the Knight's Association to another level?

Entering his dorm, Qin Wentian found Fan Le lounging about, squinting his eyes lazily. As Qin Wentian rushed over to embrace him, Fan Le squeezed him tight. "Boss, I'm overjoyed to see you!"

Qin Wentian patted Fan Le on the back after their bear hug ended. "Glad to see you too, Fatty."

Fan Le held onto Qin Wentian's hand, his excitement evident. "Boss, I've been worried sick about you, lost a few pounds over it. But now that you're back safe and sound, I feel like a new man! Oh, and by the way, I heard you're a 3rd level divine inscriptionist now. When do I get my presents?"

Qin Wentian glanced at Fatty's round figure and couldn't help but roll his eyes. "Your concern is truly touching."

"Don't mention it," Fan Le said casually, "just show your appreciation with a few 3rd level Divine Weapons."

"Nope," Qin Wentian replied firmly.

"Boss, I also heard you've got an interspatial ring and can summon Divine Spears and ancient halberds at will. Well, forget the 3rd level Divine Weapons, top-grade 2nd level Divine Weapons will do just fine! And come to think of it, a couple of Yuan Meteor Stones to help with my cultivation wouldn't hurt either," Fatty continued, undeterred.

"Still nope," Qin Wentian replied with a grin.

"Come on, boss, what happened to our brotherhood and sharing our good fortune together?" Fatty's eyes welled up with fake tears, sending shivers down Qin Wentian's spine.

"Fan Le, don't worry about Divine Weapons. You'll have more than you can handle in the future," Luo Huan interjected with an eye roll. She then turned to Qin Wentian. "Junior brother, Teacher wants to see you. Why don't you come with me?"

"Right. I need to discuss something with Teacher too," Qin Wentian agreed.

Luo Huan smiled and gestured for Fan Le to join them. "Fan Le, you're coming with us."

As the trio left, the new students nearby couldn't help but watch. They couldn't help but feel the growing gap between them and Qin Wentian, despite all being new students.

Mustang sat cross-legged beside a serene pond, his eyes closed in deep meditation.

Even the revered teachers of the Emperor Star Academy had their share of pressures. They constantly pushed their own boundaries, dedicated to both teaching and personal growth.

As they approached, Mustang's eyes snapped open, a hint of pride gleaming as he observed Qin Wentian.

"Teacher," Qin Wentian and Fan Le greeted with respectful nods.

"Speaking of this," Mustang began, "I can't help but feel a tinge of regret. As your teacher, I never had the chance to guide you directly, yet you've achieved such remarkable heights on your own."

Mustang smiled, and his words were sincere. He couldn't deny feeling a sense of pride in Qin Wentian's accomplishments.

Qin Wentian responded with gratitude, "Teacher Mustang, I'll never forget the assistance you provided to my Qin Clan."

Mustang acknowledged, "I know you value relationships deeply. That's why even the elusive old man Ren made an appearance to save you. In the Emperor Star Academy, your standing is no less than mine as an elder."

With a warm smile, Mustang continued, "Please, take a seat."

As they settled down, Mustang leaned forward, sharing his wisdom, "Now that you've achieved so much, breaking into Yuanfu is only a matter of time for you. Let me impart some of my experiences and insights to broaden your horizons. It will be beneficial for your growth. After all, someone with your potential will eventually outgrow the confines of Chu Country, and this land won't be enough to contain your talents."