47 Unexpected Encounter
"... This achievement is not just mine, but a testament to the strength of our unity. Let's continue to inspire and support each other as we strive for excellence. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me."
Liu Qian's words carried a genuine sense of gratitude and authenticity, resonating deeply with everyone present and reigniting a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie among her peers. The applause and cheers erupted once more, an enthusiastic display of appreciation and encouragement.
However, across the field, Qin Chen's gaze remained riveted on Liu Qian. There was something about her that drew him in, even though this was their first encounter. It was a puzzling feeling that he couldn't quite shake off. 2
Despite spending over two years in the same school, he had never truly noticed Liu Qian. Yet, at this moment, her undeniable talent and beauty couldn't be ignored. He was confident he wasn't the only one who felt that way.
"Perhaps I should ask for her number," he pondered, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.
********.
As the bustling welcome event continued outside the classroom, Long Tian, Li Guowu, and others enjoyed a relaxed lunch and engaging conversation in the cafeteria.
The atmosphere was serene here, with only their group and a few students seeming uninterested in the welcome ceremony for Liu Qian.
"Oh, by the way, Long Tian, any plans for after the Martial Spirit Awakening ceremony?" Bai Li suddenly asked.
"I've made a promise to my grandfather that I'll be joining Xuantian Sect. And I'm convinced it's worth it, considering it's one of the top three institutions in mainland China," Long Tian replied.
"Xuantian Sect? Did you mean Xuantian Academy?" Bai Li raised an eyebrow.
"Isn't it called Xuantian Sect? I distinctly remember that," Long Tian retorted.
"No, it's actually Xuantian Academy. I'm quite familiar with it, and it's indeed one of the most prestigious institutions in mainland China. But it's not a sect," Bai Li clarified.
"What?" Long Tian furrowed his brows. He was certain it was named Xuantian Sect, and his grandfather even held a high position there, a grand Elder.
"Are you sure you're not mistaken?" he asked, seeking confirmation.
"Bai Li is right, Long Tian. It's called Xuantian Academy, not Xuantian Sect. You might have forgotten," Li Guowu chimed in.
Long Tian's confusion deepened upon hearing this. In his previous life, he had read the novel, and though he didn't finish it, he was confident that Xuantian was indeed a sect.
"I'll show you," Bai Li offered, pulling out his smartphone.
After a quick internet search, he showed the information to Long Tian, "Here, it's called Xuantian Academy, right? There's no Xuantian Sect. You might have remembered it wrong," he explained. "Give me that," Long Tian said, taking the smartphone and delving into the detailed description of Xuantian Academy.
Each word he read reinforced the fact that Xuantian was indeed an academy.
He couldn't hide his surprise. Perhaps his transmigration to this world had led to certain discrepancies. Xuantian, which was supposed to be a sect, had transformed into an academy.
Nevertheless, it wasn't a big deal. According to the information, Xuantian Academy was still regarded as one of the top-tier institutions and martial academies in mainland China.
Handing back the smartphone to Bai Li, Long Tian admitted, "I genuinely forgot about that detail. But yeah, I'm planning to enroll there."
"Great, I'm considering applying too. Of course, assuming I can awaken a formidable martial spirit. Otherwise, I'll continue my father's business," Bai Li said.
Long Tian nodded in response. In the original storyline, Bai Li awakened a powerful White Tiger martial spirit. He wasn't sure whether Bai Li could secure a spot at the academy or not.
As for him, in the original plot, his martial spirit was that of a dragon. With the aid of an evolution elixir, he believed it could transform into an even more potent dragon.
The academy's entrance test was still several months away. During this time, he was confident he could kill Qin Chen.
Due to Liu Qian's welcoming ceremony, the lunch break had been extended. During this period, Long Tian engaged in conversations with his friends at the cafeteria.
Now, as the class hours came to an end, students began leaving the school area.
However, Long Tian walked toward the principal's office. Not because he was in trouble, but because he had been absent for two weeks and had missed out on some important matters. He needed to fill out documents to participate in the Martial Spirit Awakening event scheduled for tomorrow.
Upon entering the principal's office, he found it empty except for girl seated in one of the chairs. It was Liu Qian.
Taking a seat beside her, Long Tian caught her attention, and she looked slightly surprised.
"What are you doing here, Long Tian?" she initiated the conversation.
"Just filling out some documents for the Martial Spirit Awakening. What about you?" Long Tian countered.
"What? Same here. Did you forget or something?" Liu Qian asked, curious.
"Well, a few things slipped my mind. Anyway, congratulations on winning the competition," Long Tian said, a smile gracing his lips. "Thank you. I just got lucky that my opponents weren't too strong," Liu Qian replied, returning the smile.
As Long Tian was about to say something, the door suddenly swung open, and Sun Jian, the school principal, walked in.
"Oh, I didn't expect to find you both here. I apologize for keeping you waiting; there were several matters I had to attend to," Sun Jian said.
"No worries, Principal. But I'm a bit in a hurry, can we speed things up?" Long Tian asked.
"Of course, you just need to sign a few documents," Sun Jian said, handing three documents each to Long Tian and Liu Qian.
They took the documents and began signing them.
Sun Jian smiled as he watched them.
"Both of you are the top students of this school. Despite your immense talents, you chose not to enroll in a martial arts school and instead opted for this regular high school, achieving remarkable accomplishments. I'm really proud of both of you, and I believe you'll awaken powerful martial spirits," he stated.
"Well, I joined this school because I don't enjoy martial arts and wanted more free time," Long Tian responded.
"I also joined to avoid too much pressure," Liu Qian added.
Sun Jian's smile turned slightly stiff upon hearing their words. They had their reasons, and he understood that.
"Alright, I'm done," Long Tian said, handing back the documents. "Me too," Liu Qian added, also returning the documents.
"Well, everything's complete. You both are ready to participate in the Martial Spirit Awakening tomorrow," Sun Jian announced.
Long Tian nodded, "Alright then, Principal. I'll take my leave," he said and promptly exited the room.
Liu Qian also bid her farewell and left.
Long Tian walked towards the parking lot. This area was a bit farther from the student parking lot and designated for the teachers and special vehicles.
The atmosphere was serene, as most students and teachers had already left the school premises. Only a few student council members remained in the vicinity.
Vroooom!.
The engine of his car roared to life with a smooth and elegant sound, indicative of a luxurious vehicle with a high price tag.
However, Long Tian raised an eyebrow seeing Liu Qian approached. He rolled down the car window and inquired, "What's up?"
"Can I catch a ride with you? Seems like my dad forgot to pick me up," Liu Qian replied.
"Is your home still in Tianji Prefecture?" Long Tian asked casually. "Yes," Liu Qian nodded.n-.0velb1n
"Well, I have an important matter to attend to. But if you're okay with it, I can drop you off. It's just that I'm headed to Yu Family Auction House," Long Tian offered.
Liu Qian pondered for a moment. The Yu Family Auction House was indeed on the way to her house, but Long Tian would likely spend some time there.
After a moment, she agreed, "Sure, I'll join you."
"Then hop in," Long Tian said.
With that, Liu Qian got into the car.
Long Tian stepped on the gas pedal and drove, heading towards the Yu Family Auction House.
His purpose, of course, was to seize the opportunity that Qin Chen was supposed to get.