I found two chairs backstage and settled into a spot near the back of a classroom. The stage was raised high enough that even our shorter statures wouldn’t block the view.

Besides, Yejia Yin and her group were surely seated up front in the VIP section with school leaders—polar opposites from our spot, separated by row after row of students. Honestly, I’d chosen this seat partly to avoid her.

So why was she approaching me? My brows knotted as I strained to consider every possibility.

According to Elder Mink yesterday and Qingli later, many factions in the hidden world sought me deliberately. Most were Yao Race reformists—splinter groups who saw me as the catalyst shattering their neutral peace. Eliminate me, and they’d stay out of the coming war. Then there were human factions: logically, the Yao Race’s concentrated power made me a valuable ally. Local "Lords" would court me for alliances—and maybe a political marriage with my… mother. (A comforting thought, phrased politely.)

But Yejia Yin was a girl. She wouldn’t… wouldn’t…

Then her whisper echoed in my mind:

*["Actually… I’m into girls."]*

A chill shot down my spine. *Of course.* No wonder a pretty, popular girl would single out an ordinary guy like me—she had ulterior motives!

…Though, marrying a girl might still be better than marrying a man?

"Xiao Yao? Your face is all red."

Qingli’s worried voice snapped me back. I shook my head quickly. "Nothing! Let’s just watch the show."

It was just the opening act anyway. A few teachers with decent voices sang revolutionary classics praising the motherland. Polite applause followed, then the usual parade of school leaders—frequent and rare alike—took the podium for speeches.

A vice principal: "Teachers! Students! Good evening! *(pause for applause)* …Over a century, our First High has weathered storms and nurtured brilliant minds to reach today…"

A grade director: "…Thanks to everyone’s efforts, our college entrance exam results last year achieved… *(murmurs)* …I believe our new generation will shine even brighter!"

*Clap-clap-clap-clap-clap!*

By the time the speeches ended, night had fully fallen—perfect timing. Stage lights blazed in rainbow hues, painting the platform in dazzling colors. Standing up, I saw a sea of bobbing heads across the darkened field, like a massive concert crowd.

The seamless background music and flashy lights impressed me. Glancing behind the stage, I spotted university seniors hired for sound and lighting. *Pros really do make a difference.*

The performances were predictable: girls singing gentle ballads, boys belting childhood tunes or upbeat songs like "I Believe." Being an official anniversary gala, everything was wholesome and positive—barely any pop music.

Though I was technically a co-organizer (not the main host—that credit always went to the school), I felt utterly bored.

Qingli, however, was thrilled. Having never experienced school life, she tugged my arm excitedly:

"Xiao Yao! That girl sings so beautifully!"

"Mhm, lovely…"

"Xiao Yao! Why’s everyone cheering for that boy? Is he handsome?"

I glanced up. Ah, the school’s guitar prince—girls called him talented and dreamy. Boys whooped as he strummed his entrance. I puffed my cheeks. "Dunno. Probably ’cause he’s gay."

"…*Nya*?! Really?!" Qingli yelped, her cat-like suffix slipping out in shock.

"By the way," I added casually during a lull, "this is an official school event. They only approve sunny, uplifting acts." I didn’t dislike patriotic songs, but a whole night of them? I hoped Qingli wouldn’t be disappointed.

"Mhm, it’s fine…" She pointed at the stage. "But is *that* ‘sunny and uplifting’?"

I froze. Sweat beaded on my neck. Six students dressed as two families—*my* approved yuri skit.

My stomach twisted. I hadn’t cleared it with Teacher Fan or higher-ups. Yejia Yin promised to smooth things with leaders, but I had zero confidence.

I instinctively looked toward the VIP section—past countless student backs. Yet with my fox-spirit senses, I felt her gaze on me too.

She even playfully winked.

I jerked my head away like I’d been shocked. Qingli, absorbed in the show, missed my panic. *Phew.*

The skit itself was simple: two girls defying society to be together, clashing with parents in comedic scenes before winning approval. Its taboo theme earned roaring applause at the bow.

Most cheers came from "closet yuri fans" among the boys. I saw several leap from seats, cupping hands to shout:

"Yuri forever! Be happy!"

"Hetero for babies, homo for true love!"

"……"

*Just rowdy troublemakers.* I massaged my temples, silently praying the kind-hearted leaders would go easy on me.