Chapter 102: Skywater Academy

"Got it…"

Fire Meow Meow replied in her soft, childish voice, sounding extra well-behaved.

"Hehe~ That's more like it."

Paimon nodded approvingly, looking rather like a little boss lady.

No wonder the Traveler sometimes said odd things to her—this strange feeling was unexpectedly nice.

The banquet hosted by Skywater Academy ended on a joyful note.

Seeing that Aether and the others had put down their chopsticks, Shui Xinrou smiled gently.

"It is my honor to have met Your Excellency and everyone here. If there were any shortcomings in our hospitality, I hope Your Excellency and the others can forgive us."

"Dean, you're too polite. Thank you for the warm welcome—we really enjoyed the meal!"

Paimon giggled, floating up and down in the air like a mischievous sprite.

"Hehe, thank you, Paimon."

Receiving the compliment, Shui Xinrou's smile deepened. She continued,

"I've already heard about Yue'er's soul ring hunt. I'm deeply grateful to Your Excellency for stepping in to save her.

I'm fairly familiar with Skywater City. If there's anything I can assist you with, please don't hesitate to ask."

Shui Xinrou was eager for Aether and his companions to stay in Skywater a bit longer—partly to express gratitude for saving her academy's teachers and students, and partly to get closer to this mysterious powerhouse. If she could leave a good impression on him, all the better.

Skywater Academy lacked top-tier combat strength. If they could establish a connection with someone like Aether, perhaps one day, in a moment of crisis, he might come to their aid.

"You're too kind, Dean."

Aether replied politely, then turned to look at Yu Keke, who sat quietly in her seat.

"In fact, there's something I wanted to discuss with you."

"Please, Your Excellency, feel free to speak. If it's within my power, I will give it my all!"

Shui Xinrou didn't even ask what it was—just the fact that Aether was asking her for a favor meant it had to be something she could handle.

Considering his strength and status, what could possibly require her personal help?

Following Aether's gaze, Shui Xinrou had already guessed what he was going to say.

"The thing is, Keke just started cultivating soul power, and she still doesn't understand many basics. I was hoping she could stay at the academy for about half a month to study the fundamentals of martial souls. Would that be alright?"

"Of course, Your Excellency. Don't mention a few days—Skywater Academy would welcome Keke anytime, for as long as she wishes."

Shui Xinrou smiled warmly, as though afraid he might change his mind.

Wang Wan had mentioned in her letter a young girl of extraordinary talent. Shui Xinrou had originally intended to recruit her into the academy—but once she learned this girl was traveling with a powerful figure like Aether, she'd put the idea aside.

To her surprise, Aether was now personally sending the girl to them. Not only would the academy gain a gifted student, but she would also owe Aether a favor—what a windfall.

"Then thank you very much, Dean," Aether said with a polite cupped-fist salute.

"Eh? Traveler, you're sending Keke to study at the academy?" Paimon asked, looking a little confused.

Yu Keke's face showed a flicker of panic—was Aether abandoning her?

"Yeah, sorry Keke. I didn't get the chance to talk to you about it earlier."

Aether had intended to discuss this with Paimon and Keke after they arrived in Skywater City, and then visit the academy together.

But he hadn't expected the dean to personally greet them upon arrival. Given the circumstances, he figured it best to settle things quickly before explaining to Keke.

"I-It's fine, big brother… I'll do whatever you say."

Keke spoke softly with her head down.

She didn't know why he wanted her to study at the academy, but if it was his decision, it had to be for her own good. Obedience couldn't be wrong.

Still… would he and Paimon leave her behind once she was enrolled?

The thought made her heart sink a little.

Seeing the gloomy look on Keke's face, Aether got up, walked over to her, and gently said,

"Neither Paimon nor I know much about martial souls or soul power. We can't teach you anything meaningful.

That's why I want you to study at the academy for a while and get a solid foundation. Once you've got the basics down, that'll be enough."

He reached out and ruffled her hair.

"Work hard in your studies, alright? Paimon and I will be waiting for you right outside."

Hearing that, Keke looked up at him with her big, glistening eyes. The gloom on her face vanished as she nodded firmly.

"Okay! Big brother, I'll study really hard!"

Seeing her perk up again, Aether smiled, then glanced over at Fire Meow Meow.

"Hmm~ Just in case anything happens, how about Fire Meow Meow accompanies you? That sound good?"

Keke was still inexperienced and had barely left her village before traveling with them. This world wasn't short on troublemakers—and to avoid another incident like before, having Fire Meow Meow by her side as a study companion would be ideal.

No one In Skywater City could match Fire Meow Meow's strength, after all. With her there, Aether would feel far more at ease.

"Yes! Let Fire Meow Meow go with her—I was a bit worried too."

Paimon nodded in agreement. Last time's events were still fresh in her mind. With Fire Meow Meow around, Keke would be well protected.

"Okay, I'll listen to big brother."

Keke nodded. She knew this arrangement was out of concern for her safety, and she was deeply touched.

"Wonderful! Keke, welcome to the team!"

"Welcome, Keke!"

The Shui sisters clapped excitedly.

They were genuinely happy to have Keke as a future classmate—and perhaps even a sister.

"Welcome, Keke."

Shui Xinrou smiled as well.

Even though Aether had only said Keke would stay temporarily, a genius like her was still considered part of the academy once enrolled, wasn't she?

With her talent and Aether's guidance, she was bound to become a Title Douluo-level powerhouse someday.

When that time came, as the dean of Skywater Academy, Shui Xinrou would certainly benefit from her success.

…

Though not the imperial capital, Skywater City was one of the most prominent cities in the Heaven Dou Empire.

It spanned a large area, and unlike the Heaven Dou Imperial Academy located outside the city, Skywater Academy was nestled directly in the heart of its bustling district.

After the meal, Aether and Keke talked things over, and she decided to report to the academy right away.

In her words: "The sooner I start learning, the faster I'll finish."

Once everyone was ready, led by Shui Xinrou, they boarded a carriage and set off toward the vibrant heart of Skywater City.

_

Please support my patreon, patreon. com/TravelerDouluo

And get early access to my 70 advance chapters.