Residence Of Monsters

Feng Ping Lan wasn’t paying attention throughout the afternoon cla.s.ses, thinking about the conflicting views of the Contracts and the teachers, and the battle that was on the verge of breaking out between the Contracts and Jun Sui .  

Couldn’t there be any other way around this?

He knew that avoiding things wasn’t an option, that that person would notice that things were amiss sooner or later and come knocking on their door .

It was just that he wished they didn’t need to lay down their cards so hastily, rushing into battle so quickly .

On one hand, he was concerned about the safety of Quetzal and the others, and on another hand, it was out of his own selfishness…

He still wanted to be in contact with Quetzal and the others, he wished that this kind of life would continue just a while longer…

Just a while was fine . Although he knew they would leave at any moment, he didn’t wish for them to leave because of this . He wanted it to be of everyone’s delight and satisfaction, where Quetzal had found Shuekan, and everyone would be sent away with a perfect farewell .

Then, he thought of Jiu Shao . Jiu Shao had looked utterly left with no choice during that battle .

If you really are a Summoner, I wish you were my master…

Although he was an enemy, he couldn’t help but give rise to some sympathy for that sorrowful demon .

Everyone had their own duties to partake, their own masters, and most of the time, they didn’t have the option of choosing .

What about him, then? He was nothing, just a temporary pretense, that was all . Moreover, no one held any expectations for his performance .

Didn’t this mean that whatever decision he made didn’t matter?

Could he be willful for just a bit, and make the slightest little struggle, on the matter of persuading the Contracts to stay?

Aiya, he seemed to have gotten a little greedy…

That evening, the day cla.s.ses were finished, and it was time for Shadow Academy to start .

There were only three and a half hours left before cla.s.ses ended .

Feng Ping Lan looked at Conglong and the others . They seemed exceptionally resolute in their intentions, waiting to school to finish to start the battle, the battle with the teachers, the battle with Jun Sui .

Feng Ping Lan started expecting an earthquake to happen, or a sudden snowstorm, or the sudden demise of the Third Prince, which would force all his subordinates to hasten back to the funeral .

This way they wouldn’t need to fight .

Feng Ping Lan only went to Shadow Academy after throwing the trash, none of his Contracts accompanying him by his side . Not long after stepping through the mirror world, he was welcomed by the obstruction of three people, the club presidents of the Three Great Clubs standing before him with pretentious smiles .

“Had any progress lately, junior?” Cao Ji Xian with fake sympathy, “Have you found any unusual cases?”

“Ah? What progress?” Feng Ping Lan suffered a momentary lapse in concentration, unable to react .

“The entrance test . ” Reina’s graceful eyebrows raised, humphing in disdain, “You seem pretty unhurried, are you taking this seriously?”

Only then did Feng Ping Lan recall the matter with the club entrance test . After going to the staffroom in the afternoon, all his thoughts were focused on the business with the residence, completely casting this troublesome problem to the back of his mind .

Feng Ping Lan gave a hollow laugh, “About that, there might be a small problem…” He had intended on thinking of how to persuade the club presidents on reconsidering the rules of the test this afternoon, also thinking up terms that would be advantageous towards him . But now his mind was a blank, and he could only laugh stupidly .

“Time’s running out, you better move fast during the weekend . ” Aidi reminded him .

“Oh oh, alright alright, I’ll do my best to investigate, hahaha…”

“Good luck . ” Cao Ji Xian crossed his arms, sneering, “We will audit thoroughly, so don’t even think about deceiving us . ”

With that, the three left contemptuously .

Feng Ping Lan entered the cla.s.sroom and sat in his seat . The Contracts were all seated in their desks, and even Quetzal was present because Yerde had returned to his post .

Not long after, Yin Su Shuang entered the cla.s.sroom, and cla.s.ses started .

Feng Ping Lan had no heart to listen in cla.s.s, his desk filled up with the files for the Supernatural Research, flipping through it senselessly .

Why did all the troublesome things always seem to come at the same time? Did he have a horrible appearance? Did he look especially ridiculous? Was that why the heavens were especially hard on him…

Tomorrow was the weekend, so he had already missed the chance to talk things over with the presidents . Though if there was really a battle tonight, the entrance wouldn’t really matter anymore, and he could possibly return to being all by himself by tomorrow…

As his feelings tumbled into dismay, Feng Ping Lan shook his head hard, flinging all his negative thoughts away .

No, before that ending happened, there was always the chance of changing things! He wanted to partic.i.p.ate in club activities with Conglong and the others, he firmly believed there was a chance of this happening in the future .

He couldn’t stick his hands in the conflicting opinions of the Contracts and the teachers, but he could play his own part to his utmost ability to plan for that vague and distant peaceful future that he wished for .

Feng Ping Lan lowered his head and continued flipping through the files, but his agitated and restless heart wouldn’t let him focus no matter what .

How troublesome! If he didn’t inspect each one thoroughly, who knew which was real, which wasn’t? Wasn’t there a simpler method of doing it?

We will audit thoroughly, so don’t even think about deceiving us .  Cao Ji Xian’s reminder rang through his head .

Feng Ping Lan scratched his head in distress, his jet-black hair kneaded into a mess, like a bird’s nest .

There was no way of faking it! Where would he find the demon, to feign a supernatural phenomenon—

Feng Ping Lan’s thoughts halted .

Wait .

An idea flashed through his mind .

And then, it gradually took shape, and even he thought it was inconceivable .

Was it feasible?

Maybe… They could do it…

“Ahhhh!” Feng Ping Lan couldn’t help but cry out .

It was possible! It was possible! There was no problem! Everything was settled now!

Everyone in the cla.s.sroom turned their head to stare at Feng Ping Lan, and the Contracts used an astonished gaze to stare at that sudden abnormal movement .

“What you shouting for!” Yin Su Shuang rebuked angrily .

“Sorry sorry!” Feng Ping Lan smiled in apology, “Don’t be angry, Cla.s.s Advisor, Ping Lan loves you!”

Yin Su Shuang revealed a disgusted expression, cursing lowly, and announced a self-study session .

“What are you doing?” Conglong asked quietly, “Is your zipper broken? Did it pinch your skin?”

“I, I…” Feng Ping Lan spoke excitedly, even stammering his words, “Maybe… There’s a way . ”

“What?”

“The entrance test!” Feng Ping Lan tried his best to hold it in, and finally constrained his excitement, “I, I’ve thought of a way to pa.s.s the test!”

“Oh, really?” Byriel smiled faintly, “That’s great, hope you have a great time in your club . Hehehe…”

“You’re still thinking about something like this at this point?” Conglong couldn’t help but grumble .

They were about to start a war, why was he still thinking about something like this… To Feng Ping Lan, was school more important than them? Did this mean he stood on the Summoners’ side?

“Battling against Jun Sui means having no consideration for the Shadow Academy . ” Dongya reminded gently, a.s.suming that Feng Ping Lan hadn’t understood one of the stakes at hand, “I think, they won’t think lightly of this and continue letting us stay here…”

The worst-case scenario was the Third Prince making a direct appearance here .

There was a possibility they wouldn’t be able to return…

“I know I know, listen to me!” Feng Ping Lan appeared really anxious, “Doesn’t the entrance test require us to find a place where a demon is?”

“So?”

“We can make one! Using Jun Sui!”

The Contracts stared blankly, not quite understanding Feng Ping Lan’s plan .

“What do you mean…”

“Just like how we fooled Jiu Shao before this! First, we find a place we’re certain of that doesn’t really have any problems, then we lure Jun Sui there . We’ll act as patrolling miemoshi who discovered Jiu Shao and Mang Nao while pa.s.sing through the city and destroyed them, then moved to another city after finishing the task . As long as Jun Sui thinks that everything was done by a miemoshi, he’ll report as such to the Third Prince . This will turn the Third Prince’s attention away from the city, as well as cover up your tracks . ”

Feng Ping Lan got increasingly excited the more he explained, almost not being able to breathe in the process .

“In addition, we can gather proof of Jun Sui’s appearance, clearing the entrance test! The presidents will then report to the a.s.sociation, and the a.s.sociation will then send out Summoners to deal with the Third Prince!”

Feng Ping Lan finishing saying what he conceived in one breath, looking at the Contracts excitedly and expectantly, waiting for their response .

The Contracts were startled, their intuition telling them to rebuke and retort, but thinking about it carefully, they realized that this ridiculous plan was actually highly possible .

“Then, what about the Summoner teachers at Shadow Academy? They won’t let us act . ” Morris humphed .

“Don’t worry, we’re not returning home, we’re not trying to fight Jun Sui either, and we’re even helping them lure Jun Sui away from the city, this fits within the teachers’ expectations . ”

“Where are we luring Jun Sui to?” Conglong questioned .

“Li Rui’s relative’s hotel! We can go to his dorm to borrow his card, saying we need to go investigate the supernatural phenomenon, we definitely won’t get discovered! And we can even create rumors covering up the original rumors of the supernatural phenomenon, clearing his relative’s hotel’s name!”

The Contracts exchanged glances, momentarily not knowing how to react .

Although there were still a few uncertain particulars, this plan more or less could be put into practice, and resolve a few problems at once…

It was only up to this point, that they could really feel that Feng Ping Lan was a top Spec Ad student .

“Not bad . ” Byriel commended, clapping his hands, “But I’m really unused to seeing you suddenly turning smart, I almost got gooseb.u.mps, hehehe…”

“I’m always like this!”

“But our numbers fall too short with just us, acting as Summoners might be a little hard . ” Dongya pointed out another problem in distress .

Even though it was an act, they could possibly bluff through in a short period of time, but if they had to lengthen the time, Jun Sui would definitely sense it .

“Oh, that . ” Feng Ping Lan scratched his head . “About the numbers…”

In all honesty, he wanted to ask his cla.s.smates for help, but he wasn’t sure if they were willing to risk it…

“I would be happy to help . ” Having been silently standing by the side, Su Li Wan suddenly spoke .

“Really? Thank you, Li Wan!”

“Count me in . ” Liu Yi Chen, who had seemed to be seriously studying from a distance away, cut in . “I need to join a club anyway . ”

“Cla.s.s Rep!”

She had been listening to the conversation between Feng Ping Lan and the Contracts . Confronting the Royal Clan was dangerous, but it was a danger she was willing to risk . The reason why she could live so freely and unconstrained like this was due to Feng Ping Lan . She wanted to return the favor .

Besides…

Whenever she thought of letting go of everything, fighting to her heart’s content like she did before, it made her blood boil .

“So you weren’t concentrating on your work after all . ” Byriel mocked, smiling .

“…I’ll join…” Zong Yu had moved to where they were at before they had realized, speaking gloomily . “The last test subject was beaten to a pulp, I need to preserve this one whole…”

He was talking about Jiu Shao . Zong Yu had always wanted to experiment of a Contract’s corpse .

“Cla.s.s Rep, Xiao Yu-er! Uuu, I’m so moved, I’ll even be willing to devote my life to you guys thrice!”

“Then, can you put in my name as the beneficiary for your body donation…”  Zong Yu proposed quietly .

Feng Ping Lan excitedly tried to jump on Liu Yi Chen and the others, but was mercilessly pushed away by Liu Yi Chen .

“That’s great, everything’s alright now that we have three more people—”

Before he could finish, he was cut off by a furious question .

“Wait a minute! What do you mean, three people?” Ivan pulled Igor over, closing the distance between Feng Ping Lan and the others resentfully, “Do you guys plan on leaving Igor and I alone to clean the toilets? I don’t care, we’re joining too!”

He’d started paying attention the moment Feng Ping Lan started acting strangely at the start of cla.s.s . As expected, something had happened!

They dared exclude them?! Just too hateful!

“What are you guys joining for?” Morris asked, frowning .

“You’re not even lacking a club,” Conglong said next .

“I told you, things get interesting with you guys!” Ivan replied smilingly, “I want to follow! How can we not partic.i.p.ate in something so interesting such as toying with the Royal Clan? Isn’t that right, Igor?”

Igor nodded .

“Oh, that’s great . ” Byriel smiled glancing at Igor, “We have an extra bait at our disposal, the odds of withdrawal has upped quite a lot, hehehe . ”

“You sure?” Ivan replied challengingly with an innocent smile, “Careful, or you might get bitten while putting the bait!”

“You’ll need to know when I’m putting the bait first . ” Byriel returned a profound smile, “You might be biting into another bait, hehehe…”

Having lost another battle of words with Byriel, Ivan frowned in annoyance .

“You’re really horrible…”

“Likewise, likewise . ”

“I’ll pull one on you one day!” Ivan announced rashly .

“Hopefully it’ll happen at least once in my lifetime . ” Byriel smiled elegantly .

“We have enough members now, what next?” Liu Yi Chen immediately cut to the point, “I know you want to act out a show to lure the enemy away, so how do we a.s.sign the work?”

“I was thinking of separating into two groups . ” Feng Ping Lan started explaining his plan .

One group was to go to the residence, attracting Jun Sui’s attention and luring him away to the hotel; another group would proceed directly to the hotel and wait . Both sides would act as Summoners that came from different places, gathering at the hotel to exchange information, then head for the next destination . While exchanging information, they would deliberately leak out fake news that Jun Sui would then report to the Third Prince .

“What if he gets suspicious?”

“Uh…” Feng Ping Lan hadn’t considered that possibility, since that wasn’t a factor they could control .

“It’s very simple, we attack . ” Dongya said lightly, “He will feel that information gained through risking his life is particularly precious, so he won’t suspect that the information is false . ” He realized that everyone was looking at him with astonishment, and smiled slightly, “This is said from experience . ”

“There’s another problem . ” Byriel smiled, “I don’t think that the people present here look like powerful miemoshi capable of putting an end to Ci Mu, Mang Nao, and Jiu Shao . No offense, hehehe…”

Indeed . They were still students, and their young features didn’t look like experienced miemoshi no matter how you looked at it .

“What about dressing up? Revealing our faces doesn’t seem like a good idea either . ”

“How? Do we put on makeup? Can we fool him?”

“…I can help . ” Zong Yu said quietly . “Don’t forget, the corpse I made couldn’t be seen through by even the hospital staff, xixixi…”

“We’re not trying to dress up as corpses . ” Liu Yi Chen rolled her eyes, “We’ll cause a riot even by walking through the streets! I don’t want my brain busted by zombie fanatics . ”

“Things would be simpler then . ” Zong Yu pulled the corners of his mouth, “Although it’s not challenging at all…”

“Now that’s solved, what about our costumes? We can’t just walk there in our uniforms . ” Conglong pointed out another problem .

“Mm… I was thinking about wrapping cloth around ourselves, change the design a little . ”

“Cloth from where?”

“Cloth from where?”

“We can probably borrow some of the bedsheets from the sick bay?” Feng Ping Lan suggested wildly, “It has the mysterious magician’s feel to it . ”

“That looks like a mental case wearing a straitjacket!” Liu Yi Chen immediately refuted .

“Um,” Su Li Wan gently cut in, “By coincidence, I have the keys to the Drama Research’s storeroom . ”

“Why do you have it?” Liu Yi Chen was curious .

Su Li Wan smiled, “The first to arrive and last to leave is responsible for locking the doors . ” She pushed her hair to the side, deemphasizing, “And my workload is a little more than usual . ”

“Reina, that b.i.t.c.h! She only knows how to bully!” Liu Yi Chen said harshly .

But, it was only because of this, that they had the chance of using their costumes .

As if it was something set up by the heavens . Some things were hard to differentiate from good or bad, fortune or misfortune .

“Then how do we go there?” Ivan asked .

“The train!” Conglong’s eyes lit up, “I want to ride the train!”

“Li Rui’s relative’s hotel is pretty far away from the train station, transportation might be a bit inconvenient . ” Feng Ping Lan scratched his head . “Can we use spells to get there?”

“No, we’ll risk getting discovered . ” Dongya vetoed .

“The ones luring Jun Sui there can use spells . ” Byriel objected, “Since they need to be discovered by Jun Sui, using one or two spells can heighten his belief . The others will think of something else to get there . ”

“My family has a delivery truck, there’ll be no problem shoving eleven people in it . ” Liu Yi Chen spoke, “The problem is, who’ll be driving?”

“Igor has a driver’s license!”

Igor nodded his head at the others, a slight bashfulness appearing on his flat expression .

“Eleven people?” Feng Ping Lan did a head count, “Won’t there be more than twelve people on the way back? Excluding Xiao Yu-er, the Summoners and Contracts altogether should be twelve people . ”

“Yerde needs to stay at school, he can’t partic.i.p.ate . ”

“We can put Conglong in the boot, doesn’t matter,” Byriel spoke .

“Hey!”

“Oh, then that leaves…” Feng Ping Lan glanced at Su Li Wan, and recalled the person missing, “Ah, what about Zhong Xian?”

“He’s over there . ” Su Li Wan pointed to another corner of the room a little embarra.s.sedly . Zhong Xian, with the long braid and Chinese chang pao, stood very far away .

“What’s he doing there?” Morris had always disliked Zhong Xian .

“He hasn’t talked to me ever since I went with you guys to fight Jiu Shao . ” Su Li Wan forced a smile, “I was criticized by my relatives after that incident, and Zhong Xian was pulled into it without cause or reason . He must be angry…

This was why, she knew that Zhong Xian would never partic.i.p.ate this time around .

“I see . ” Feng Ping Lan rubbed his chin, moving his attention back to the topic at hand, “Mm, okay, now we’re only lacking a script… Although we know the general direction we’re taking, we might get exposed if we don’t have a script . We’d better arrange the lines and characters . Who can help?”

“Can’t you write it yourself?”

“My composition isn’t that great . ” Feng Ping Lan laughed foolishly with some sheepishness, “Teacher always says that my creativity is a hundred marks, but I get zero marks for keeping to the subject . ”

In other words, whenever he started writing halfway, the events would play out into something that surpa.s.sed the realm of imagination which would then place the essay into another dimension .

Who should they find…

Simo timidly raised her hand .

“Um… I, probably… can…” She said quietly, head lowered, her hair covering the side of her face, “I like to watch dramas, so I can write the script… P-probably…”

“That’s great!” Feng Ping Lan clapped his hands . “There’s only one problem left…”

This problem did not require any specialty, but with the current situation they were in, it could only be solved with his position .

Although it was a small job, it had to do with whether this whole plan could be put into action…

Just a while before cla.s.s was over, Feng Ping Lan ran over to the podium and smiled flatteringly at Yin Su Shuang . “Most beloved Cla.s.s~ Advisor~”

“What?”

“I want to request a leave of absence . ”

Yin Su Shuang furrowed his eyebrows, “Reason?”

“To complete the club entrance test . ” Feng Ping Lan cracked a smile, “Not just me, Quetzal, Dongya, Byriel, Conglong, Morris, Simo, and Cla.s.s Rep, Li Wan, Xiao Yu-er, Ivan and Igor all want to take a leave of absence . ”

Yin Su Shuang’s eyebrows shot up even further, as if he had been told an absurd joke . “What are you planning?”

“Oh, actually…” Feng Ping Lan recapitulated his entire plan to him .

With the plan completed, they still needed to leave the school to carry it out . In the end, it was with the school’s agreement only did they have the possibility of executing it .

Yin Su Shuang froze for a moment . Although it couldn’t be seen in his gloomy face, he was truly astonished .

It seemed like a messy and crude plan, but it ingeniously tied various situations together, resolving all the problems at once, without provoking a single person…

He couldn’t help but sigh in admiration . Admiration, but it also brought forth a few concerns and unease .

Yin Su Shuang was silent for a few seconds, “…Did you think this up?”

“Uh, yes . ” Feng Ping Lan thought the cla.s.s advisor was about to reproach, hurriedly opening his mouth, “I thought this up on my own initiative because being at a deadlock wouldn’t be too good . This way we can solve the problem, and it won’t break the Shadow Academy’s rules . So, can we? Cla.s.s Advisor?”

Yin Su Shuang frowned, entering a deep contemplation . In the next moment, he sighed helplessly . “I’ll request for instructions from the Director…”

“Then we can—” Can we go now?

“Before permission is granted, you are not to leave the school grounds . ”

This meant, he would close an eyelid if they left the cla.s.sroom .

“Thanks, Cla.s.s Advisor!”

Feng Ping Lan happily turned away to report back to his companions . After briefly explaining and dividing the work, they started to move .

Seeing the plan unfolding without a hitch, there was a sort of satisfaction coming from his heart . He felt incredibly happy seeing everyone working together for the same goal .

Not completely because everyone was joining forces, but because, he was one of them .

He had companions! Not fighting alone by himself, nor was he by himself excluded by others .

There were doing something so dangerous, but he did not care in the least .

If it were possible, he wholeheartedly hoped that this kind of life could continue a little longer…

Feng Ping Lan went through the mirror world, pa.s.sed the plaza under the night sky and headed towards the dormitories, running straight for the rooms .

“Li Rui, it’s me . ” He knocked, then turned the k.n.o.b, which was locked . “Are you in there?”

Most students went home on a Friday night, but Bai Li Rui usually stayed at the dorms, so that he wouldn’t miss the chance of b.u.mping into a female student .

“Wait…” A frantic reply sounded out .

The sound of a chair being dragged through the floor sounded from behind the door, then the mixed noise of tidying things out . Then, the door opened .

“Good evening . ” Feng Ping Lan smiled, he saw that Bai Li Rui hadn’t even had time to put on his gla.s.ses, clearing being too much in a hurry to do so, “Are you busy?”

“Good evening . ” Feng Ping Lan smiled, he saw that Bai Li Rui hadn’t even had time to put on his gla.s.ses, clearing being too much in a hurry to do so, “Are you busy?”

“Uh, mm…” Bai Li Rui replied non-committedly .

Feng Ping Lan nodded, revealing a knowing smile . He patted Bai Li Rui’s shoulder . “You’re in quite the mood today, Li Rui . ”

A youthful boy, alone at night, just what was there to be busy about? He understood .

Bai Li Rui knew Feng Ping Lan had completely misunderstood, but did not explain further . Never mind, a misunderstanding was a good thing too, this way he wouldn’t need to think of another excuse .

“Where’s your roommate?”

“I don’t have a new roommate, I’m one person living on my own . ”

It was true that he was one person living all by himself, because the one besides him here couldn’t be considered human . That tiny, beautiful roommate, was a secret that belonged to him alone .

Feng Ping Lan sized up the room as he entered . There were still various strange objects placed on Bai Li Rui’s bookshelf that he knew definitely had something to do with chasing girls, but he didn’t know what they were used for .

Gaze moving towards the desk, he saw a half-eaten peach and a small framework, with a few mini-sized clothes hanging on it .

“Li Rui, what is that?” Feng Ping Lan walked towards the desk curiously, staring at the small and exquisite clothing . “Are these a doll’s clothes? They’re so small, so beautiful! Why do you have these?”

“Uh, I’ve realized that girls love dolls, so I’m doing a little research . Understanding a girl’s hobbies helps greatly with the topic of conversation…” Bai Li Rui said whatever that came into his mind .

He had bought those clothes for Jiu Shao to wear . Although the clothes Jiu Shao had were gorgeous, they were already torn to no end and seriously worn down . He wasn’t sure what style Jiu Shao liked, so he had bought a bunch, so that the little beauty would choose them for himself when the time came .

Seeing Feng Ping Lan approach the rack, Bai Li Rui hurriedly spoke, turning the subject away . “Why are you looking for me so late at night?”

His little beauty was sleeping on the small bed in the cupboard . A part of the cabinet had been set up like a bedroom . The little bed was something he had gotten custom-made, all the handmade furniture arranged like a mini-mansion . He had even connected it to wires, making the cabinet light up with little light bulbs, so that the little beauty wouldn’t wake up in the darkness .

“Oh!” Feng Ping Lan turned his head, opening his mouth a little sheepishly, “Um, I want to borrow your hotel’s VIP card…”

Bai Li Rui furrowed his brows, “At this time?”

“Yes… Because a situation’s suddenly come up, we urgently need to take a trip there…” Feng Ping Lan hesitatingly gave out a vague reason . He didn’t want to make too many excuses, because he didn’t want to tell lies .

“Oh, okay . ” Bai Li Rui didn’t ask further, taking out a black magnetic card from his bag, handing it to Feng Ping Lan candidly .

He didn’t want Feng Ping Lan to stay too long in this room, before a side issue arose . Who knew when Jiu Shao would wake up, and if he woke up and walked out of the cabinet at this moment, how was he to explain to Feng Ping Lan? Besides, Jiu Shao didn’t wish for anyone to know of his existence .

“Oh, thanks!” Feng Ping Lan took the card, “Is there a limit on the number of people on this card?”

“No . ” Although he wanted to quickly end this conversation, Bai Li Rui couldn’t help but be curious, “Who are you going with?”

“Uh, Cla.s.s Rep, Zong Yu, Li Wan, and Byriel, Simo and the others… Also Ivan, Igor…” Feng Ping Lan hesitantly gave out a long list of names .

Bai Li Rui frowned, “You’re going on a trip with that many girls?”

“Haha… Does Li Rui want to go along?” Feng Ping Lan knew his words felt a little weak .

“No, I have something to do . ” Bai Li Rui rebuffed immediately .

“Oh, that’s a shame . ” Feng Ping Lan secretly let out a sigh of relief, “Um, can we live in that problematic hotel room? Because the club wants us to investigate supernatural incidents…”

Bai Li Rui knitted his eyebrows, “I told you that was just a rumor . ”

“Yes yes, I know, we want to prove that it’s just a rumor, and then we’ll let everyone know, also clearing the hotel’s name in the process!”

“Oh, you don’t actually need to do that, there are still guests who’ll still stay in that room . ” Although most of them were foreigners who knew absolutely nothing about the rumor .

“It’s fine, it’s no trouble . ” Feng Ping Lan stared at that card, “How do we reserve the room?”

“No need to reserve, you just need to give your names and flash the card . ”

“That convenient?” Feng Ping Lan tsked in wonderment, carefully putting away the card . “Li Rui, you must have a good relationship with your relative . ”

“Mm . ” Bai Li Rui answered non-committedly .

“Then I won’t bother you anymore! Thanks, Li Rui? Good night, see you on Monday! Bye bye~” Feng Ping Lan retreated out of the room, preparing to hurry to his next destination .

After sending Feng Ping Lan away, Bai Li Rui dialed a number on his phone .

“Help me put the manager on the line . ”

The other end was silent for a moment, and someone else answered the phone .

“It’s me . ” Bai Li Rui immediately started giving instructions, “I have friends going over the next two days, they’ll be in possession of my card . Let them check-in at any time and place them in the villa overlooking the ocean as well as rooms of the same type . Make all the facilities and services free of charge . ”

After hanging up the phone, he carefully opened the cabinet, gazing at the small beauty lying on the soft cushions . The corner of his lips subconsciously revealed a gentle smile .

When would he wake up? He wanted to bring him out to have some fun as well…

The next destination after leaving the dormitory, was the sick bay building .

He couldn‘t wait to tell Quetzal of his plan, his mind imagining Quetzal’s reaction after listening to him .

Would he praise him? Would he pat his shoulder? Or would he grip his hand expressing his thanks?

Feng Ping Lan grinned as he ran .

But, he wasn’t sure if Quetzal would agree with this plan…

Would that haughty Quetzal really accept this ridiculous plan? Would he be willing to work with the Summoners?

If he ruled out this plan, just what kind of method would he use to persuade him…

Pursing his lips together, he threw the thought to the back of his mind, increasing his pace . Hurried footsteps rang out, echoing through the school building .

Sick bay .

The entire building was in darkness, the emergency exit signs shining a gloomy green light .

The workplace in the corner was also dusky, with only a goose-yellow desk lamp lighted on the table, a long and narrow shadow pulling at the back of every object in the room .

A long silhouette sat on the chair behind the desk, hands folded over the abdomen, slightly facing backward .

Grave and stern features were a little pale, and although his eyes were shut, the eyebrows were still deeply locked, as if he was annoyed by something .

He was waiting, waiting to leave when the night cla.s.ses ended .

He being willing to wait until night cla.s.ses ended to leave was paying enough respect towards the Summoners . If they still tried to obstruct him, he would eliminate all the hindrances…

Although he knew this method was unwise, he would not huddle and shrink back any longer…

If this went on, he worried he would be tamed, forgetting the dignity of being the prince’s general…

Tamed by whom?

Eyebrows slightly knitted, he painstakingly ignored the question rising in his heart .

A tightening feeling continuously came through his throat, almost making him unable to breathe . But he still clenched his teeth and repressed it, acting as if that pain did not exist, acting as if that primitive thirst was non-existent .

His awareness was unfocused, and stealthily, it escaped his control bit by tiny bit, slackening a little on the embellishments .

If they were successfully detained by the Summoners, would they be imprisoned, sealed, or immediately destroyed?

His Highness Shuekan… He wanted to quickly return to the little prince’s side, return to the Underworld, rise up again, and realize his dream, realized the prince’s dream of becoming king .

If he failed, all would cease, all would be in vain—

No, not right, not all would be in vain .

There was a guy who would accompany by his side, a guy who couldn’t be shaken off even if he wanted to .

No, not right, not all would be in vain .

There was a guy who would accompany by his side, a guy who couldn’t be shaken off even if he wanted to .

An idiotic smiling face and ear-grating laughter rang surfaced in his mind .

A relieved feeling subconsciously gave rise in his heart, but the moment this feeling arose, it was pushed far far away from himself .

Feng Ping Lan’s existence was nothing to him, he was just a—

Just a source of food, isn’t that right?

The desire at the bottom of his heart quietly whispered to his consciousness .

Quetzal, who was on the edge of disorientation, didn’t have much willpower to resist .

…Not completely…

He weakly protested at the bottom of his heart .

How long will you resist? In this state, not just Jun Sui and the Third Prince’s other subordinates, you won’t even be able to fend off a few Summoners like this…

With Quetzal’s hazy awareness, he had not much ability to think, and could only submit to it .

Indeed…

Faintly, he felt as if he heard the sound of footsteps and knocking . But that noise was too far away from him, he was too occupied to pay attention .

The whisperings in his mind came from the deep thirst and instinct, that captured the control of his consciousness .

Can you smell it?

What?

The fragrance that is faintly seeping through?

Quetzal inhaled, sensing a whiff of blood in the air that an ordinary human wouldn’t be able to detect .

The smell was closing in .

His teeth ached, pushing him to scavenge for food .

What are you hesitating for?

Eat .

Quetzal complied, and opened his mouth, biting down . The rich, tepid and metallic blood rushed down his throat, moistening his parched soul .

Delicious…

The liquid bringing vitality poured in, and as he regained his strength, his consciousness emerged from the deeps layers of his instincts, gradually awakening .

Quetzal lowered his head, abruptly realizing that he was feeding .

What was he doing!

He backed away, releasing his mouth .

What entered his vision was a snow-white collar pushed to the side, revealing a wide shoulder, a tattered bandage hanging on that shoulder, and crossing over the slash wound on the shoulder was the seeping of blood .

Quetzal felt his heart chill, and his gaze swept up . Those familiar features were smiling in a calm and unruffled manner at him .

“Quetzal,” Feng Ping Lan spoke with a smile, a teasing glint in his eyes, “Once you’re done eating, let’s go . ”

Feng Ping Lan knocked on the office door and called out a few times, but no one answered .

He carefully turned the k.n.o.b, stepping in . In a gloomy room lit by only a light bulb, Quetzal sat on the office chair, both eyes closed .

“Quetzal?”

No reaction from the person on the chair .

Feng Ping Lan covered his mouth in delight .

Was Quetzal asleep? This was his first time seeing it!

He sneakily approached Quetzal, intending on observing this rare sight attentively .

Quetzal looked incredibly solemn in his sleep . His hands were crossed over his stomach, his head leaning against the back of the chair . If not for the rising and falling of his chest, he would look like a perfect sculpture .

Quetzal had his eyebrows deeply knitted in his sleep, lips pursed tightly, as if he was holding back some sort of pain .

Why did he look so distressed even in his sleep… Who would have such a serious expression while asleep…

Feng Ping Lan moved closer to Quetzal .

After observing for a moment, he reached out a hand, lightly touching those grave and stern features . His fingers brushed across the forehead, attempting to smooth over those wrinkled brows .

The brows beneath his fingers, seemed to twitch a little .

Feng Ping Lan immediately drew back, but before his fingers could leave a single inch, his wrist was violently seized .

Tightly shut eyes began to slowly open .

“Uh, Quetzal… Um, I came to—” Feng Ping Lan thought he would be reprimanded, and hurried to explain .

But before he could finish, he was dragged down by the wrist by a violent force . Feng Ping Lan lost his balance, falling onto those long thighs . Then, his collar was ripped open, and the bandage on his shoulder was also roughly torn down .

The knife wound that had been slightly recovered started oozing blood . Feng Ping Lan was still struck dumb, completely numb to the pain .

“Q-Quetzal?”

The purple eyes before him shone with a demonic and wild glint .

Quetzal opened his mouth, but did not speak, just simply going for the wound on his shoulder .

A tepidness transferred over from Feng Ping Lan’s shoulder, and then the feeling of continuous drinking .

He realized what had happened…

From what he had experienced previously, Quetzal would lose to his instincts and surrender to his primitive thirst .

Feng Ping Lan scratched his head . He knew Quetzal didn’t need much blood, and would regain his rationality once brought up to full strength .

He glanced at the head close to him, reaching out a hand to pat it .

He must have hungered for a long time… This guy really loved to put up a brave front, really worried about losing face .

In the next moment, he felt Quetzal’s body suddenly become rigid, and trembling, he raised his head, pulling back .

Ah, it was over .

Feng Ping Lan looked at Quetzal, curious about how he would react .

Apparent shock was displayed in Quetzal’s eyes, and the shame and upset at being caught at doing something wrong .

He never knew Quetzal could reveal this kind of expression . It was a little amusing .

If only he had brought a camera along…

He saw guilt and remorse in Quetzal’s eyes .

And then, a little heinously, he used that trace of guilt . He smiled and spoke, “Quetzal, once you’re done eating, let’s go . ”

Feng Ping Lan wasn’t paying attention throughout the afternoon cla.s.ses, thinking about the conflicting views of the Contracts and the teachers, and the battle that was on the verge of breaking out between the Contracts and Jun Sui .  .

Couldn’t there be any other way around this?.

He knew that avoiding things wasn’t an option, that that person would notice that things were amiss sooner or later and come knocking on their door

It was just that he wished they didn’t need to lay down their cards so hastily, rushing into battle so quickly

On one hand, he was concerned about the safety of Quetzal and the others, and on another hand, it was out of his own selfishness….

He still wanted to be in contact with Quetzal and the others, he wished that this kind of life would continue just a while longer….

Just a while was fine . Although he knew they would leave at any moment, he didn’t wish for them to leave because of this . He wanted it to be of everyone’s delight and satisfaction, where Quetzal had found Shuekan, and everyone would be sent away with a perfect farewell

Then, he thought of Jiu Shao . Jiu Shao had looked utterly left with no choice during that battle

If you really are a Summoner, I wish you were my master….

Although he was an enemy, he couldn’t help but give rise to some sympathy for that sorrowful demon

Everyone had their own duties to partake, their own masters, and most of the time, they didn’t have the option of choosing

What about him, then? He was nothing, just a temporary pretense, that was all . Moreover, no one held any expectations for his performance

Didn’t this mean that whatever decision he made didn’t matter?.

Could he be willful for just a bit, and make the slightest little struggle, on the matter of persuading the Contracts to stay?.

Aiya, he seemed to have gotten a little greedy….

*.

That evening, the day cla.s.ses were finished, and it was time for Shadow Academy to start

There were only three and a half hours left before cla.s.ses ended

Feng Ping Lan looked at Conglong and the others . They seemed exceptionally resolute in their intentions, waiting to school to finish to start the battle, the battle with the teachers, the battle with Jun Sui

Feng Ping Lan started expecting an earthquake to happen, or a sudden snowstorm, or the sudden demise of the Third Prince, which would force all his subordinates to hasten back to the funeral

This way they wouldn’t need to fight

Feng Ping Lan only went to Shadow Academy after throwing the trash, none of his Contracts accompanying him by his side . Not long after stepping through the mirror world, he was welcomed by the obstruction of three people, the club presidents of the Three Great Clubs standing before him with pretentious smiles

“Had any progress lately, junior?” Cao Ji Xian with fake sympathy, “Have you found any unusual cases?”.

“Ah? What progress?” Feng Ping Lan suffered a momentary lapse in concentration, unable to react

“The entrance test . ” Reina’s graceful eyebrows raised, humphing in disdain, “You seem pretty unhurried, are you taking this seriously?”.

Only then did Feng Ping Lan recall the matter with the club entrance test . After going to the staffroom in the afternoon, all his thoughts were focused on the business with the residence, completely casting this troublesome problem to the back of his mind

Feng Ping Lan gave a hollow laugh, “About that, there might be a small problem…” He had intended on thinking of how to persuade the club presidents on reconsidering the rules of the test this afternoon, also thinking up terms that would be advantageous towards him . But now his mind was a blank, and he could only laugh stupidly

“Time’s running out, you better move fast during the weekend . ” Aidi reminded him

“Oh oh, alright alright, I’ll do my best to investigate, hahaha…”.

“Good luck . ” Cao Ji Xian crossed his arms, sneering, “We will audit thoroughly, so don’t even think about deceiving us . ”.

With that, the three left contemptuously

Feng Ping Lan entered the cla.s.sroom and sat in his seat . The Contracts were all seated in their desks, and even Quetzal was present because Yerde had returned to his post

Not long after, Yin Su Shuang entered the cla.s.sroom, and cla.s.ses started

Feng Ping Lan had no heart to listen in cla.s.s, his desk filled up with the files for the Supernatural Research, flipping through it senselessly

Why did all the troublesome things always seem to come at the same time? Did he have a horrible appearance? Did he look especially ridiculous? Was that why the heavens were especially hard on him….

Tomorrow was the weekend, so he had already missed the chance to talk things over with the presidents . Though if there was really a battle tonight, the entrance wouldn’t really matter anymore, and he could possibly return to being all by himself by tomorrow….

As his feelings tumbled into dismay, Feng Ping Lan shook his head hard, flinging all his negative thoughts away

No, before that ending happened, there was always the chance of changing things! He wanted to partic.i.p.ate in club activities with Conglong and the others, he firmly believed there was a chance of this happening in the future

He couldn’t stick his hands in the conflicting opinions of the Contracts and the teachers, but he could play his own part to his utmost ability to plan for that vague and distant peaceful future that he wished for

Feng Ping Lan lowered his head and continued flipping through the files, but his agitated and restless heart wouldn’t let him focus no matter what

How troublesome! If he didn’t inspect each one thoroughly, who knew which was real, which wasn’t? Wasn’t there a simpler method of doing it?.

We will audit thoroughly, so don’t even think about deceiving us .  Cao Ji Xian’s reminder rang through his head

Feng Ping Lan scratched his head in distress, his jet-black hair kneaded into a mess, like a bird’s nest

There was no way of faking it! Where would he find the demon, to feign a supernatural phenomenon—.

Feng Ping Lan’s thoughts halted

Wait

An idea flashed through his mind

And then, it gradually took shape, and even he thought it was inconceivable

Was it feasible?.

Maybe… They could do it….

“Ahhhh!” Feng Ping Lan couldn’t help but cry out

It was possible! It was possible! There was no problem! Everything was settled now!.

Everyone in the cla.s.sroom turned their head to stare at Feng Ping Lan, and the Contracts used an astonished gaze to stare at that sudden abnormal movement

“What you shouting for!” Yin Su Shuang rebuked angrily

“Sorry sorry!” Feng Ping Lan smiled in apology, “Don’t be angry, Cla.s.s Advisor, Ping Lan loves you!”.

Yin Su Shuang revealed a disgusted expression, cursing lowly, and announced a self-study session

“What are you doing?” Conglong asked quietly, “Is your zipper broken? Did it pinch your skin?”.

“I, I…” Feng Ping Lan spoke excitedly, even stammering his words, “Maybe… There’s a way . ”.

“What?”.

“The entrance test!” Feng Ping Lan tried his best to hold it in, and finally constrained his excitement, “I, I’ve thought of a way to pa.s.s the test!”.

“Oh, really?” Byriel smiled faintly, “That’s great, hope you have a great time in your club . Hehehe…”.

“You’re still thinking about something like this at this point?” Conglong couldn’t help but grumble

They were about to start a war, why was he still thinking about something like this… To Feng Ping Lan, was school more important than them? Did this mean he stood on the Summoners’ side?.

“Battling against Jun Sui means having no consideration for the Shadow Academy . ” Dongya reminded gently, a.s.suming that Feng Ping Lan hadn’t understood one of the stakes at hand, “I think, they won’t think lightly of this and continue letting us stay here…”.

The worst-case scenario was the Third Prince making a direct appearance here

There was a possibility they wouldn’t be able to return….

“I know I know, listen to me!” Feng Ping Lan appeared really anxious, “Doesn’t the entrance test require us to find a place where a demon is?”.

“So?”.

“We can make one! Using Jun Sui!”.

The Contracts stared blankly, not quite understanding Feng Ping Lan’s plan

“What do you mean…”.

“Just like how we fooled Jiu Shao before this! First, we find a place we’re certain of that doesn’t really have any problems, then we lure Jun Sui there . We’ll act as patrolling miemoshi who discovered Jiu Shao and Mang Nao while pa.s.sing through the city and destroyed them, then moved to another city after finishing the task . As long as Jun Sui thinks that everything was done by a miemoshi, he’ll report as such to the Third Prince . This will turn the Third Prince’s attention away from the city, as well as cover up your tracks . ”.

Feng Ping Lan got increasingly excited the more he explained, almost not being able to breathe in the process

“In addition, we can gather proof of Jun Sui’s appearance, clearing the entrance test! The presidents will then report to the a.s.sociation, and the a.s.sociation will then send out Summoners to deal with the Third Prince!”.

Feng Ping Lan finishing saying what he conceived in one breath, looking at the Contracts excitedly and expectantly, waiting for their response

The Contracts were startled, their intuition telling them to rebuke and retort, but thinking about it carefully, they realized that this ridiculous plan was actually highly possible

“Then, what about the Summoner teachers at Shadow Academy? They won’t let us act . ” Morris humphed

“Don’t worry, we’re not returning home, we’re not trying to fight Jun Sui either, and we’re even helping them lure Jun Sui away from the city, this fits within the teachers’ expectations . ”.

“Where are we luring Jun Sui to?” Conglong questioned

“Li Rui’s relative’s hotel! We can go to his dorm to borrow his card, saying we need to go investigate the supernatural phenomenon, we definitely won’t get discovered! And we can even create rumors covering up the original rumors of the supernatural phenomenon, clearing his relative’s hotel’s name!”.

The Contracts exchanged glances, momentarily not knowing how to react

Although there were still a few uncertain particulars, this plan more or less could be put into practice, and resolve a few problems at once….

It was only up to this point, that they could really feel that Feng Ping Lan was a top Spec Ad student

“Not bad . ” Byriel commended, clapping his hands, “But I’m really unused to seeing you suddenly turning smart, I almost got gooseb.u.mps, hehehe…”.

“I’m always like this!”.

“But our numbers fall too short with just us, acting as Summoners might be a little hard . ” Dongya pointed out another problem in distress

Even though it was an act, they could possibly bluff through in a short period of time, but if they had to lengthen the time, Jun Sui would definitely sense it

“Oh, that . ” Feng Ping Lan scratched his head . “About the numbers…”.

In all honesty, he wanted to ask his cla.s.smates for help, but he wasn’t sure if they were willing to risk it….

“I would be happy to help . ” Having been silently standing by the side, Su Li Wan suddenly spoke

“Really? Thank you, Li Wan!”.

“Count me in . ” Liu Yi Chen, who had seemed to be seriously studying from a distance away, cut in . “I need to join a club anyway . ”.

“Cla.s.s Rep!”.

She had been listening to the conversation between Feng Ping Lan and the Contracts . Confronting the Royal Clan was dangerous, but it was a danger she was willing to risk . The reason why she could live so freely and unconstrained like this was due to Feng Ping Lan . She wanted to return the favor

Besides….

Whenever she thought of letting go of everything, fighting to her heart’s content like she did before, it made her blood boil

“So you weren’t concentrating on your work after all . ” Byriel mocked, smiling

“…I’ll join…” Zong Yu had moved to where they were at before they had realized, speaking gloomily . “The last test subject was beaten to a pulp, I need to preserve this one whole…”.

He was talking about Jiu Shao . Zong Yu had always wanted to experiment of a Contract’s corpse

“Cla.s.s Rep, Xiao Yu-er! Uuu, I’m so moved, I’ll even be willing to devote my life to you guys thrice!”.

“Then, can you put in my name as the beneficiary for your body donation…”  Zong Yu proposed quietly

Feng Ping Lan excitedly tried to jump on Liu Yi Chen and the others, but was mercilessly pushed away by Liu Yi Chen

“That’s great, everything’s alright now that we have three more people—”.

Before he could finish, he was cut off by a furious question

“Wait a minute! What do you mean, three people?” Ivan pulled Igor over, closing the distance between Feng Ping Lan and the others resentfully, “Do you guys plan on leaving Igor and I alone to clean the toilets? I don’t care, we’re joining too!”.

He’d started paying attention the moment Feng Ping Lan started acting strangely at the start of cla.s.s . As expected, something had happened!.

They dared exclude them?! Just too hateful!.

“What are you guys joining for?” Morris asked, frowning

“You’re not even lacking a club,” Conglong said next

“I told you, things get interesting with you guys!” Ivan replied smilingly, “I want to follow! How can we not partic.i.p.ate in something so interesting such as toying with the Royal Clan? Isn’t that right, Igor?”.

Igor nodded

“Oh, that’s great . ” Byriel smiled glancing at Igor, “We have an extra bait at our disposal, the odds of withdrawal has upped quite a lot, hehehe . ”.

“You sure?” Ivan replied challengingly with an innocent smile, “Careful, or you might get bitten while putting the bait!”.

“You’ll need to know when I’m putting the bait first . ” Byriel returned a profound smile, “You might be biting into another bait, hehehe…”.

Having lost another battle of words with Byriel, Ivan frowned in annoyance

“You’re really horrible…”.

“Likewise, likewise . ”.

“I’ll pull one on you one day!” Ivan announced rashly

“Hopefully it’ll happen at least once in my lifetime . ” Byriel smiled elegantly

“We have enough members now, what next?” Liu Yi Chen immediately cut to the point, “I know you want to act out a show to lure the enemy away, so how do we a.s.sign the work?”.

“I was thinking of separating into two groups . ” Feng Ping Lan started explaining his plan

One group was to go to the residence, attracting Jun Sui’s attention and luring him away to the hotel; another group would proceed directly to the hotel and wait . Both sides would act as Summoners that came from different places, gathering at the hotel to exchange information, then head for the next destination . While exchanging information, they would deliberately leak out fake news that Jun Sui would then report to the Third Prince

“What if he gets suspicious?”.

“Uh…” Feng Ping Lan hadn’t considered that possibility, since that wasn’t a factor they could control

“It’s very simple, we attack . ” Dongya said lightly, “He will feel that information gained through risking his life is particularly precious, so he won’t suspect that the information is false . ” He realized that everyone was looking at him with astonishment, and smiled slightly, “This is said from experience . ”.

“There’s another problem . ” Byriel smiled, “I don’t think that the people present here look like powerful miemoshi capable of putting an end to Ci Mu, Mang Nao, and Jiu Shao . No offense, hehehe…”.

Indeed . They were still students, and their young features didn’t look like experienced miemoshi no matter how you looked at it

“What about dressing up? Revealing our faces doesn’t seem like a good idea either . ”.

“How? Do we put on makeup? Can we fool him?”.

“…I can help . ” Zong Yu said quietly . “Don’t forget, the corpse I made couldn’t be seen through by even the hospital staff, xixixi…”.

“We’re not trying to dress up as corpses . ” Liu Yi Chen rolled her eyes, “We’ll cause a riot even by walking through the streets! I don’t want my brain busted by zombie fanatics . ”.

“Things would be simpler then . ” Zong Yu pulled the corners of his mouth, “Although it’s not challenging at all…”.

“Now that’s solved, what about our costumes? We can’t just walk there in our uniforms . ” Conglong pointed out another problem

“Mm… I was thinking about wrapping cloth around ourselves, change the design a little . ”.

“Cloth from where?”.

“We can probably borrow some of the bedsheets from the sick bay?” Feng Ping Lan suggested wildly, “It has the mysterious magician’s feel to it . ”.

“That looks like a mental case wearing a straitjacket!” Liu Yi Chen immediately refuted

“Um,” Su Li Wan gently cut in, “By coincidence, I have the keys to the Drama Research’s storeroom . ”.

“Why do you have it?” Liu Yi Chen was curious

Su Li Wan smiled, “The first to arrive and last to leave is responsible for locking the doors . ” She pushed her hair to the side, deemphasizing, “And my workload is a little more than usual . ”.

“Reina, that b.i.t.c.h! She only knows how to bully!” Liu Yi Chen said harshly

But, it was only because of this, that they had the chance of using their costumes

As if it was something set up by the heavens . Some things were hard to differentiate from good or bad, fortune or misfortune

“Then how do we go there?” Ivan asked

“The train!” Conglong’s eyes lit up, “I want to ride the train!”.

“Li Rui’s relative’s hotel is pretty far away from the train station, transportation might be a bit inconvenient . ” Feng Ping Lan scratched his head . “Can we use spells to get there?”.

“No, we’ll risk getting discovered . ” Dongya vetoed

“The ones luring Jun Sui there can use spells . ” Byriel objected, “Since they need to be discovered by Jun Sui, using one or two spells can heighten his belief . The others will think of something else to get there . ”.

“My family has a delivery truck, there’ll be no problem shoving eleven people in it . ” Liu Yi Chen spoke, “The problem is, who’ll be driving?”.

“Igor has a driver’s license!”.

Igor nodded his head at the others, a slight bashfulness appearing on his flat expression

“Eleven people?” Feng Ping Lan did a head count, “Won’t there be more than twelve people on the way back? Excluding Xiao Yu-er, the Summoners and Contracts altogether should be twelve people . ”.

“Yerde needs to stay at school, he can’t partic.i.p.ate . ”.

“We can put Conglong in the boot, doesn’t matter,” Byriel spoke

“Hey!”.

“Oh, then that leaves…” Feng Ping Lan glanced at Su Li Wan, and recalled the person missing, “Ah, what about Zhong Xian?”.

“He’s over there . ” Su Li Wan pointed to another corner of the room a little embarra.s.sedly . Zhong Xian, with the long braid and Chinese chang pao, stood very far away

“What’s he doing there?” Morris had always disliked Zhong Xian

“He hasn’t talked to me ever since I went with you guys to fight Jiu Shao . ” Su Li Wan forced a smile, “I was criticized by my relatives after that incident, and Zhong Xian was pulled into it without cause or reason . He must be angry….

This was why, she knew that Zhong Xian would never partic.i.p.ate this time around

“I see . ” Feng Ping Lan rubbed his chin, moving his attention back to the topic at hand, “Mm, okay, now we’re only lacking a script… Although we know the general direction we’re taking, we might get exposed if we don’t have a script . We’d better arrange the lines and characters . Who can help?”.

“Can’t you write it yourself?”.

“My composition isn’t that great . ” Feng Ping Lan laughed foolishly with some sheepishness, “Teacher always says that my creativity is a hundred marks, but I get zero marks for keeping to the subject . ”.

In other words, whenever he started writing halfway, the events would play out into something that surpa.s.sed the realm of imagination which would then place the essay into another dimension

Who should they find….

Simo timidly raised her hand

“Um… I, probably… can…” She said quietly, head lowered, her hair covering the side of her face, “I like to watch dramas, so I can write the script… P-probably…”.

“That’s great!” Feng Ping Lan clapped his hands . “There’s only one problem left…”.

This problem did not require any specialty, but with the current situation they were in, it could only be solved with his position

Although it was a small job, it had to do with whether this whole plan could be put into action….

*.

Just a while before cla.s.s was over, Feng Ping Lan ran over to the podium and smiled flatteringly at Yin Su Shuang . “Most beloved Cla.s.s~ Advisor~”.

“What?”.

“I want to request a leave of absence . ”.

Yin Su Shuang furrowed his eyebrows, “Reason?”.

“To complete the club entrance test . ” Feng Ping Lan cracked a smile, “Not just me, Quetzal, Dongya, Byriel, Conglong, Morris, Simo, and Cla.s.s Rep, Li Wan, Xiao Yu-er, Ivan and Igor all want to take a leave of absence . ”.

Yin Su Shuang’s eyebrows shot up even further, as if he had been told an absurd joke . “What are you planning?”.

“Oh, actually…” Feng Ping Lan recapitulated his entire plan to him

With the plan completed, they still needed to leave the school to carry it out . In the end, it was with the school’s agreement only did they have the possibility of executing it

Yin Su Shuang froze for a moment . Although it couldn’t be seen in his gloomy face, he was truly astonished

It seemed like a messy and crude plan, but it ingeniously tied various situations together, resolving all the problems at once, without provoking a single person….

He couldn’t help but sigh in admiration . Admiration, but it also brought forth a few concerns and unease

Yin Su Shuang was silent for a few seconds, “…Did you think this up?”.

“Uh, yes . ” Feng Ping Lan thought the cla.s.s advisor was about to reproach, hurriedly opening his mouth, “I thought this up on my own initiative because being at a deadlock wouldn’t be too good . This way we can solve the problem, and it won’t break the Shadow Academy’s rules . So, can we? Cla.s.s Advisor?”.

Yin Su Shuang frowned, entering a deep contemplation . In the next moment, he sighed helplessly . “I’ll request for instructions from the Director…”.

“Then we can—” Can we go now?.

“Before permission is granted, you are not to leave the school grounds . ”.

This meant, he would close an eyelid if they left the cla.s.sroom

“Thanks, Cla.s.s Advisor!”.

Feng Ping Lan happily turned away to report back to his companions . After briefly explaining and dividing the work, they started to move

Seeing the plan unfolding without a hitch, there was a sort of satisfaction coming from his heart . He felt incredibly happy seeing everyone working together for the same goal

Not completely because everyone was joining forces, but because, he was one of them

He had companions! Not fighting alone by himself, nor was he by himself excluded by others

There were doing something so dangerous, but he did not care in the least

If it were possible, he wholeheartedly hoped that this kind of life could continue a little longer….

*.

Feng Ping Lan went through the mirror world, pa.s.sed the plaza under the night sky and headed towards the dormitories, running straight for the rooms

“Li Rui, it’s me . ” He knocked, then turned the k.n.o.b, which was locked . “Are you in there?”.

Most students went home on a Friday night, but Bai Li Rui usually stayed at the dorms, so that he wouldn’t miss the chance of b.u.mping into a female student

“Wait…” A frantic reply sounded out

The sound of a chair being dragged through the floor sounded from behind the door, then the mixed noise of tidying things out . Then, the door opened

“Good evening . ” Feng Ping Lan smiled, he saw that Bai Li Rui hadn’t even had time to put on his gla.s.ses, clearing being too much in a hurry to do so, “Are you busy?”.

“Uh, mm…” Bai Li Rui replied non-committedly

Feng Ping Lan nodded, revealing a knowing smile . He patted Bai Li Rui’s shoulder . “You’re in quite the mood today, Li Rui . ”.

A youthful boy, alone at night, just what was there to be busy about? He understood

Bai Li Rui knew Feng Ping Lan had completely misunderstood, but did not explain further . Never mind, a misunderstanding was a good thing too, this way he wouldn’t need to think of another excuse

“Where’s your roommate?”.

“I don’t have a new roommate, I’m one person living on my own . ”.

It was true that he was one person living all by himself, because the one besides him here couldn’t be considered human . That tiny, beautiful roommate, was a secret that belonged to him alone

Feng Ping Lan sized up the room as he entered . There were still various strange objects placed on Bai Li Rui’s bookshelf that he knew definitely had something to do with chasing girls, but he didn’t know what they were used for

Gaze moving towards the desk, he saw a half-eaten peach and a small framework, with a few mini-sized clothes hanging on it

“Li Rui, what is that?” Feng Ping Lan walked towards the desk curiously, staring at the small and exquisite clothing . “Are these a doll’s clothes? They’re so small, so beautiful! Why do you have these?”.

“Uh, I’ve realized that girls love dolls, so I’m doing a little research . Understanding a girl’s hobbies helps greatly with the topic of conversation…” Bai Li Rui said whatever that came into his mind

He had bought those clothes for Jiu Shao to wear . Although the clothes Jiu Shao had were gorgeous, they were already torn to no end and seriously worn down . He wasn’t sure what style Jiu Shao liked, so he had bought a bunch, so that the little beauty would choose them for himself when the time came

Seeing Feng Ping Lan approach the rack, Bai Li Rui hurriedly spoke, turning the subject away . “Why are you looking for me so late at night?”.

His little beauty was sleeping on the small bed in the cupboard . A part of the cabinet had been set up like a bedroom . The little bed was something he had gotten custom-made, all the handmade furniture arranged like a mini-mansion . He had even connected it to wires, making the cabinet light up with little light bulbs, so that the little beauty wouldn’t wake up in the darkness

“Oh!” Feng Ping Lan turned his head, opening his mouth a little sheepishly, “Um, I want to borrow your hotel’s VIP card…”.

Bai Li Rui furrowed his brows, “At this time?”.

“Yes… Because a situation’s suddenly come up, we urgently need to take a trip there…” Feng Ping Lan hesitatingly gave out a vague reason . He didn’t want to make too many excuses, because he didn’t want to tell lies

“Oh, okay . ” Bai Li Rui didn’t ask further, taking out a black magnetic card from his bag, handing it to Feng Ping Lan candidly

He didn’t want Feng Ping Lan to stay too long in this room, before a side issue arose . Who knew when Jiu Shao would wake up, and if he woke up and walked out of the cabinet at this moment, how was he to explain to Feng Ping Lan? Besides, Jiu Shao didn’t wish for anyone to know of his existence

“Oh, thanks!” Feng Ping Lan took the card, “Is there a limit on the number of people on this card?”.

“No . ” Although he wanted to quickly end this conversation, Bai Li Rui couldn’t help but be curious, “Who are you going with?”.

“Uh, Cla.s.s Rep, Zong Yu, Li Wan, and Byriel, Simo and the others… Also Ivan, Igor…” Feng Ping Lan hesitantly gave out a long list of names

Bai Li Rui frowned, “You’re going on a trip with that many girls?”.

“Haha… Does Li Rui want to go along?” Feng Ping Lan knew his words felt a little weak

“No, I have something to do . ” Bai Li Rui rebuffed immediately

“Oh, that’s a shame . ” Feng Ping Lan secretly let out a sigh of relief, “Um, can we live in that problematic hotel room? Because the club wants us to investigate supernatural incidents…”.

Bai Li Rui knitted his eyebrows, “I told you that was just a rumor . ”.

“Yes yes, I know, we want to prove that it’s just a rumor, and then we’ll let everyone know, also clearing the hotel’s name in the process!”.

“Oh, you don’t actually need to do that, there are still guests who’ll still stay in that room . ” Although most of them were foreigners who knew absolutely nothing about the rumor

“It’s fine, it’s no trouble . ” Feng Ping Lan stared at that card, “How do we reserve the room?”.

“No need to reserve, you just need to give your names and flash the card . ”.

“That convenient?” Feng Ping Lan tsked in wonderment, carefully putting away the card . “Li Rui, you must have a good relationship with your relative . ”.

“Mm . ” Bai Li Rui answered non-committedly

“Then I won’t bother you anymore! Thanks, Li Rui? Good night, see you on Monday! Bye bye~” Feng Ping Lan retreated out of the room, preparing to hurry to his next destination

After sending Feng Ping Lan away, Bai Li Rui dialed a number on his phone

“Help me put the manager on the line . ”.

The other end was silent for a moment, and someone else answered the phone

“It’s me . ” Bai Li Rui immediately started giving instructions, “I have friends going over the next two days, they’ll be in possession of my card . Let them check-in at any time and place them in the villa overlooking the ocean as well as rooms of the same type . Make all the facilities and services free of charge . ”.

After hanging up the phone, he carefully opened the cabinet, gazing at the small beauty lying on the soft cushions . The corner of his lips subconsciously revealed a gentle smile

When would he wake up? He wanted to bring him out to have some fun as well….

*.

The next destination after leaving the dormitory, was the sick bay building

He couldn‘t wait to tell Quetzal of his plan, his mind imagining Quetzal’s reaction after listening to him

Would he praise him? Would he pat his shoulder? Or would he grip his hand expressing his thanks?.

Feng Ping Lan grinned as he ran

But, he wasn’t sure if Quetzal would agree with this plan….

Would that haughty Quetzal really accept this ridiculous plan? Would he be willing to work with the Summoners?.

If he ruled out this plan, just what kind of method would he use to persuade him….

Pursing his lips together, he threw the thought to the back of his mind, increasing his pace . Hurried footsteps rang out, echoing through the school building

*.

Sick bay

The entire building was in darkness, the emergency exit signs shining a gloomy green light

The workplace in the corner was also dusky, with only a goose-yellow desk lamp lighted on the table, a long and narrow shadow pulling at the back of every object in the room

A long silhouette sat on the chair behind the desk, hands folded over the abdomen, slightly facing backward

Grave and stern features were a little pale, and although his eyes were shut, the eyebrows were still deeply locked, as if he was annoyed by something

He was waiting, waiting to leave when the night cla.s.ses ended

He being willing to wait until night cla.s.ses ended to leave was paying enough respect towards the Summoners . If they still tried to obstruct him, he would eliminate all the hindrances….

Although he knew this method was unwise, he would not huddle and shrink back any longer….

If this went on, he worried he would be tamed, forgetting the dignity of being the prince’s general….

Tamed by whom?.

Eyebrows slightly knitted, he painstakingly ignored the question rising in his heart

A tightening feeling continuously came through his throat, almost making him unable to breathe . But he still clenched his teeth and repressed it, acting as if that pain did not exist, acting as if that primitive thirst was non-existent

His awareness was unfocused, and stealthily, it escaped his control bit by tiny bit, slackening a little on the embellishments

If they were successfully detained by the Summoners, would they be imprisoned, sealed, or immediately destroyed?.

His Highness Shuekan… He wanted to quickly return to the little prince’s side, return to the Underworld, rise up again, and realize his dream, realized the prince’s dream of becoming king

If he failed, all would cease, all would be in vain—.

No, not right, not all would be in vain

There was a guy who would accompany by his side, a guy who couldn’t be shaken off even if he wanted to

An idiotic smiling face and ear-grating laughter rang surfaced in his mind

A relieved feeling subconsciously gave rise in his heart, but the moment this feeling arose, it was pushed far far away from himself

Feng Ping Lan’s existence was nothing to him, he was just a—.

Just a source of food, isn’t that right?.

The desire at the bottom of his heart quietly whispered to his consciousness

Quetzal, who was on the edge of disorientation, didn’t have much willpower to resist

…Not completely….

He weakly protested at the bottom of his heart

How long will you resist? In this state, not just Jun Sui and the Third Prince’s other subordinates, you won’t even be able to fend off a few Summoners like this….

With Quetzal’s hazy awareness, he had not much ability to think, and could only submit to it

Indeed….

Faintly, he felt as if he heard the sound of footsteps and knocking . But that noise was too far away from him, he was too occupied to pay attention

The whisperings in his mind came from the deep thirst and instinct, that captured the control of his consciousness

Can you smell it?.

What?.

The fragrance that is faintly seeping through?.

Quetzal inhaled, sensing a whiff of blood in the air that an ordinary human wouldn’t be able to detect

The smell was closing in

His teeth ached, pushing him to scavenge for food

What are you hesitating for?.

Eat

Quetzal complied, and opened his mouth, biting down . The rich, tepid and metallic blood rushed down his throat, moistening his parched soul

Delicious….

The liquid bringing vitality poured in, and as he regained his strength, his consciousness emerged from the deeps layers of his instincts, gradually awakening

Quetzal lowered his head, abruptly realizing that he was feeding

What was he doing!.

He backed away, releasing his mouth

What entered his vision was a snow-white collar pushed to the side, revealing a wide shoulder, a tattered bandage hanging on that shoulder, and crossing over the slash wound on the shoulder was the seeping of blood

Quetzal felt his heart chill, and his gaze swept up . Those familiar features were smiling in a calm and unruffled manner at him

“Quetzal,” Feng Ping Lan spoke with a smile, a teasing glint in his eyes, “Once you’re done eating, let’s go . ”.

*.

Feng Ping Lan knocked on the office door and called out a few times, but no one answered

He carefully turned the k.n.o.b, stepping in . In a gloomy room lit by only a light bulb, Quetzal sat on the office chair, both eyes closed

“Quetzal?”.

No reaction from the person on the chair

Feng Ping Lan covered his mouth in delight

Was Quetzal asleep? This was his first time seeing it!.

He sneakily approached Quetzal, intending on observing this rare sight attentively

Quetzal looked incredibly solemn in his sleep . His hands were crossed over his stomach, his head leaning against the back of the chair . If not for the rising and falling of his chest, he would look like a perfect sculpture

Quetzal had his eyebrows deeply knitted in his sleep, lips pursed tightly, as if he was holding back some sort of pain

Why did he look so distressed even in his sleep… Who would have such a serious expression while asleep….

Feng Ping Lan moved closer to Quetzal

After observing for a moment, he reached out a hand, lightly touching those grave and stern features . His fingers brushed across the forehead, attempting to smooth over those wrinkled brows

The brows beneath his fingers, seemed to twitch a little

Feng Ping Lan immediately drew back, but before his fingers could leave a single inch, his wrist was violently seized

Tightly shut eyes began to slowly open

“Uh, Quetzal… Um, I came to—” Feng Ping Lan thought he would be reprimanded, and hurried to explain

But before he could finish, he was dragged down by the wrist by a violent force . Feng Ping Lan lost his balance, falling onto those long thighs . Then, his collar was ripped open, and the bandage on his shoulder was also roughly torn down

The knife wound that had been slightly recovered started oozing blood . Feng Ping Lan was still struck dumb, completely numb to the pain

“Q-Quetzal?”.

The purple eyes before him shone with a demonic and wild glint

Quetzal opened his mouth, but did not speak, just simply going for the wound on his shoulder

A tepidness transferred over from Feng Ping Lan’s shoulder, and then the feeling of continuous drinking

He realized what had happened….

From what he had experienced previously, Quetzal would lose to his instincts and surrender to his primitive thirst

Feng Ping Lan scratched his head . He knew Quetzal didn’t need much blood, and would regain his rationality once brought up to full strength

He glanced at the head close to him, reaching out a hand to pat it

He must have hungered for a long time… This guy really loved to put up a brave front, really worried about losing face

In the next moment, he felt Quetzal’s body suddenly become rigid, and trembling, he raised his head, pulling back

Ah, it was over

Feng Ping Lan looked at Quetzal, curious about how he would react

Apparent shock was displayed in Quetzal’s eyes, and the shame and upset at being caught at doing something wrong

He never knew Quetzal could reveal this kind of expression . It was a little amusing

If only he had brought a camera along….

He saw guilt and remorse in Quetzal’s eyes

And then, a little heinously, he used that trace of guilt . He smiled and spoke, “Quetzal, once you’re done eating, let’s go . ”.