After the basic theory class, Leyang and Phoenix were invited by Lumiere to dine together in Zone A. Getting to taste imperial palace cuisine was an opportunity Leyang wouldn't refuse. They also needed to discuss their afternoon action plan. A quiet spot was essential—somewhere like the cafeteria would risk eavesdroppers ruining everything.
At noon, Phoenix skipped sword practice at the training ground. Instead, she taught Leyang basic literacy. Finally, he had mastered the written language of the Camila Empire. He was no longer illiterate here. Ironically, Phoenix’s knowledge now lagged behind his. She even had to ask Leyang for help sometimes.
Nearby, Princess Ailin Camila Lumier studied a magic book intently. Leyang and Phoenix occasionally peeked over. The three of them seemed perfectly harmonious. Watching this, Yvette’s lips curled into a faint, relieved smile. At last, her little princess had genuine friends her own age.
Unconsciously, the two girls grew tired and fell asleep. Yvette stayed to watch over them. Leyang stepped into the courtyard. He drew his Silver Blade Dagger and began practicing basic sword forms—just enough for fitness. Hidden experts were observing him. He couldn’t afford to reveal his true strength yet.
He’d also memorized the magic from that book. Surface-level, it appeared as a first-tier Water Ripple spell. But the complete version was actually a second-tier water magic: Wave Summoning. It could call forth powerful water waves to strike foes. Neither Phoenix nor Lumiere was a water Mage. Yet Lumiere insisted on studying other elemental magics. "Only by knowing yourself and your enemy," she’d said, "can you win every battle."
Leyang longed to test Wave Summoning immediately. But his magic talent was his ultimate trump card. He had to stay cautious. Until he was strong enough to protect himself, he couldn’t cast it openly.
Soon, etiquette class time arrived. Leyang left Zone A, heading back to his wooden hut to train alone. But when he opened the door, he froze. An uninvited guest occupied his space.
A fiery, gorgeous woman lounged lazily in his armchair. Her voluptuous figure radiated seductive charm. She wore a pink mage robe with a high slit, revealing one long, fair leg. Any grown man would’ve felt heat surge in his gut.
Leyang, however, was only eight. His body didn’t react strongly. He’d seen plenty of beauties before. Though inwardly impressed, his face stayed perfectly calm.
"You finally came back?" Soya Jemi’s phoenix eyes fixed on him. She smiled faintly. "Planning to skip afternoon class again? Or is there more ‘important personal privacy’ to handle?"
"Uh, Tutor Soya Jemi visiting her student personally? I’m truly honored," Leyang replied.
"I see no honor in your expression."
"The shock is inside. I go blank-faced when startled. Forgive me, Tutor." He cupped his hands politely.
"Smooth talker. Practical class starts now. Come." Soya Jemi rose and strode toward him.
"Noble etiquette is boring. I’d rather train." Leyang shook his head firmly.
"For nobles, etiquette is essential. I won’t have my student kicked out of Class A after next month’s test."
"Kick me out then. Send me to the remedial class—I’d love the freedom."
"You little rascal. You’re shaming me." Soya Jemi ghosted to his side in a flash. She seized his shoulder and vanished with him.
In the etiquette hall, Leyang scowled at Phoenix and Lumiere. They gasped.
"Lord Leyang, how did you—?" Phoenix asked, startled.
"Don’t ask. I was dragged here. That woman waited in my room. Etiquette is dull. Training alone is better." Leyang waved dismissively, frowning.
"Hehe~ Tutor Jemi always gets her way. Since you’re caught, just study hard, Lord Leyang," Lumiere giggled.
"I refuse. I’d die first."
"Don’t say that. This class combines two or three groups. If you slack off, you’ll disgrace all of Class A. Tutor Jemi won’t spare you later." Two tiny red horns seemed to sprout from Lumiere’s head as she grinned mischievously. Seeing Leyang flustered thrilled her. *So you have this day too?*
"Hmph. A true man doesn’t fight women. Think she could catch me if I resisted?" Leyang shot back.
"Please don’t be angry, Lord Leyang. Let’s do our best together." Phoenix gently tugged his sleeve, smiling softly.
"I heard today’s class includes Class B next door. Perfect chance to observe them. Look—they’re arriving." Lumiere nodded toward the entrance. Class B students filed in.
Class A stood on the hall’s left; Class B lined up on the right. Leyang glanced at Chester Baroli. The boy stared at someone in Class B, a trace of fear clear in his eyes. Following his gaze, Leyang spotted a youth who shared Baroli’s face—but with arrogant brows and a self-centered aura.
"Is that Baroli’s twin brother—Chester Owen?"
"Yes. He’s reportedly excellent and kind, popular among nobles. Hard to believe he abuses his own brother."
"Heh. Such evils start young. Surface appearances lie. Remember: hearts hide behind bellies. Eyes often deceive." Leyang sneered coldly.
"Lord Leyang, you seem so mature. Not like a child."
"Says you, Princess Lumiere. Aren’t you the same?" They exchanged knowing smiles. Phoenix shivered slightly, unsure why.
