The next morning—
Li Xian stood before the academy chief, posture straight, expression calm.
"I need permission to leave the academy for a short time," he said.
The chief didn't even look up at first.
"For what reason?"
"…Personal."
That made the chief pause. His gaze lifted, sharp and assessing.
"Denied."
Li Xian blinked. "That fast?"
"This is not a place where students come and go as they please," the chief replied firmly. "If it is important, bring your father and speak through proper authority."
Li Xian's eyes darkened slightly for a brief moment.
Bring… Father?
Impossible.
"…I understand," he said instead, voice light again.
But the moment he stepped out—
His expression changed.
Then I'll go without permission.
The decision came easily.
Too easily.
For the rest of the day—
Li Xian was… himself again.
Or at least—
That's what everyone saw.
He laughed.
Teased others.
Moved through the academy like nothing was wrong.
Bright. Carefree. Energetic.
But his eyes—
They were sharp.
Focused.
Alive in a different way.
Just like before…
A small thrill ran through him.
Like when he was five.
Sneaking out.
Breaking rules.
Chasing something forbidden.
That feeling again.
By the afternoon, he found himself near the practice grounds.
And of course—
Zhao Han was there.
"Still training alone?" Li Xian called out, walking over casually. "At this rate, you'll become unbeatable. Then what will I do?"
Zhao Han didn't stop his movement.
"Lose."
Li Xian laughed. "Cold as always."
Zhao Han finally glanced at him.
"You seem… different today."
Li Xian tilted his head slightly. "Different? How?"
"…Louder."
"Hm, you don't like it?"
"I didn't say that."
A small pause.
Zhao Han's gaze lingered.
"You're hiding something."
Li Xian froze for just a second—
Then smiled.
"Me? Never."
Zhao Han's expression didn't change.
But his eyes didn't look convinced either.
Li Xian stepped closer, lowering his voice slightly.
"Why? Worried about me?"
"…Don't misunderstand."
"Ahh, there it is," Li Xian grinned. "That's the Zhao Han I know."
For a brief moment—
It almost felt normal again.
But only for a moment.
As Li Xian turned away, his smile faded slightly.
Tonight.
When night fell, the academy grew silent.
Lights dimmed.
Voices disappeared.
Li Xian stood by his window, already dressed.
Ready.
His eyes were no longer playful now.
Only focused.
Determined.
"The forbidden forest…" he murmured.
And without hesitation—
He stepped into the darkness.