On the eve of the professional competition's registration, Lin dedicated his night to meticulous preparation, harnessing the academy's skill training hall to enhance his summoning prowess. The quiet hall became a crucible of focus as Lin meticulously summoned a cadre of skeletal mages, their numbers bolstering his formidable undead legion. By dawn, his forces were ready, a silent testament to his resolve and strategic acumen.
As the first rays of morning light heralded the day of registration, Lin and Ning Yiyi navigated the bustling academy grounds, the air electric with anticipation. Amidst the throng, Lin's attentiveness caught the familiar laughter and banter of close companions, bringing a rare smile to his usually reserved demeanor.
"Are you looking for sister?" Ning Yiyi queried, noting Lin's scanning gaze among the sea of faces.
"Yes," Lin confirmed, though his search for Lin Mohan proved fruitless within the crowd.
Their conversation was abruptly complemented by the vibrant greeting of Xia Xue, Lin's high school comrade, whose arrival with Zuo Mei and Feng Xiu added a spark of camaraderie to the morning's excitement. Their exchange, filled with jests and gentle ribbing, underscored the deep bonds formed over shared challenges and triumphs. "Lin!" Xia Xue called out, bridging the distance with a smile that mirrored Lin's own.
"Are you guys signing up too?" she inquired, her voice a blend of surprise and delight.
"Yes," Lin responded, matching her enthusiasm.
Xia Xue's introduction to Ning Yiyi was met with warmth, their handshake a symbol of new alliances and shared futures. "I'm Xia Xue, elemental mage," she said, extending her hand with grace.
Ning Yiyi's reply was swift and full of pride, "Ning Yiyi, Lin's girlfriend." She declared with a playful smile on her face. But her clear and unhesitant declaration, drew nods of understanding from Xia Xue and her companions.
The casual yet earnest banter continued, with Feng Xiu teasingly chiding Lin for prioritizing love over friendships, eliciting laughter and mock indignation in equal measure. Amidst the light-hearted exchanges, they were shocked to learn that Lin was already level 26! After a brief pause, Zuo Mei's playful admonition, "Men, shouldn't be too fast," momentarily stilled the conversation, her words echoing with unintended wisdom and humor.
As the group parted ways, Lin and Ning Yiyi's encounter with Jiang Taotao and her friends further enriched the tapestry of their day. The proposition to form a united front for the competition sparked a flurry of agreements and a shared determination to excel, not for the allure of prizes, but for the invaluable experience and camaraderie the event promised.
"Let's form a team together," Ning Yiyi proposed, her suggestion met with enthusiastic consent. The decision was sealed with conditions that spoke volumes of their collective spirit: to seek not material rewards but the honor of participation and the pursuit of excellence.
As the day unfolded, Lin's preparations, coupled with the vibrant interactions among friends and allies, painted a vivid picture of anticipation and unity, setting the stage for a competition that would undoubtedly be remembered for its fierce contests and the indomitable spirit of its participants.