The light filters through the office windows, casting a warm and inviting glow.
Kai and his friends cautiously enter Principal Ryu's office, their steps hesitant as they sense an inexplicable pressure emanating from within.
The air grows heavy, suffocating their lungs, and causing some of them to stumble, their bodies struggling to bear the weight.
Sensei Mei quickly addresses Principal Ryu, her voice tinged with concern. "What are you doing?" she exclaims, her voice filled with concern and confusion.
The suffocating pressure abruptly ceases, dissipating like a heavy fog lifting. Principal Ryu, with a sheepish smile, responds, "Ah, nothing, Princess. Just a little test for the students."
Sensei Mei's anger flares, her voice sharp as she retorts, "Testing them like this?"
Principal Ryu attempts to appease her, his voice gentle. "Come on, Mei, it's just a harmless experiment. I want to see their resilience."
Meanwhile, the students, finally able to catch their breath and regain their balance, observe the scene unfolding before them.
Confusion etches across their faces as they try to make sense of the overwhelming pressure and Principal Ryu's behavior. Their thoughts race, connecting the dots from previous conversations and interactions.
It suddenly clicks – Principal Ryu refers to Sensei Mei as "Princess." Their gazes instinctively turn to Master Liang, silently pleading for an explanation.
Master Liang, amusement twinkling in his eyes, chuckles softly at their bewildered expressions. "Ah, it seems you weren't aware," he says, relishing in their curiosity.
"Sensei Mei is actually Principal Ryu's daughter," he reveals, enjoying their stunned reactions as comprehension dawns upon them.
The students' mouths drop open in astonishment. A collective "Wait, what?!" escapes their lips.
Principal Ryu, noting their surprise, attempts to ease the tension. He adopts a more composed demeanor, his voice laced with affection and understanding.
"I apologize for my earlier actions. I tend to be a bit mischievous when it comes to my daughter," he confesses, a hint of playfulness in his eyes.
The students, still processing the revelation, can't help but smile at the familial bond between the esteemed principal and their respected sensei.
With the atmosphere lightened, Principal Ryu shifts his focus to the students' achievements.
His once mischievous demeanor transforms into one of sophistication and maturity, as he commends them for their exceptional performance in the Inter-School Competition.
Their attention is drawn to his distinguished appearance, with silvery gray hair that speaks of maturity and experience, and wise hazel eyes that exude approachability and empathy.
He praises their efforts and reveals the purpose of their gathering.
"I've called you all here to inform you about the prize promised by the school if you won the competition," he begins.
"The school will provide the Combat Department with additional resources to support their cultivation. Furthermore, each student will have the opportunity to select a technique from the school's treasury.
Although limited to the first floor, there are still powerful techniques waiting to be discovered. So, keep your hopes high and anticipate tomorrow."
Joy and gratitude light up the students' faces, their hearts filled with anticipation for the treasures that await them.
Overflowing with appreciation, the students express their heartfelt thanks to Principal Ryu for his generosity.
The atmosphere transforms from initial tension to an air of excitement and camaraderie. Principal Ryu, satisfied with their reaction, dismisses the students, advising them to rest.
As they leave the office, their steps lighter and spirits lifted, they exchange knowing glances, their minds buzzing with plans and aspirations.
Meanwhile, Sensei Mei remains in the room, her curious eyes fixed upon her father.
Her voice holds a mix of curiosity and determination as she probes Principal Ryu, "So, what's your real motive for granting them access to the Treasury? You never allowed such privileges before."
Principal Ryu feigns hurt, a playful glint in his eyes. "Do I really come across as someone with ulterior motives?"
Sensei Mei replies nonchalantly, "Yes."
Principal Ryu sighs dramatically. "My daughter has grown, and now she rebels against me. I remember when you were little, how cute you were, saying you'd grow up to be just like me."
Sensei Mei blushes,(>///<)ﾉ cutting him off. "Enough nostalgia. Tell me the real reason."
Principal Ryu drops the facade, his expression serious. "Honestly, I admire their tenacity and skills. Granting them access to the Treasury is a way to support their growth for the future."
As Principal Ryu is about to continue, his gaze shifts, fixating on something outside the window. His words trail off, leaving Sensei Mei with unanswered questions.
Meanwhile, the students, filled with excitement and gratitude for the rewards awaiting them, bid farewell to Master Liang and exit the school.
They embark on their journey home, eagerly anticipating the treasures that await them in the school's minor treasury.