The courtyard was peaceful, with only the rustling of Feng Jiao Xue's packing and the soft breeze breaking the silence. She moved with calm efficiency, methodically organizing her belongings. She was leaving today, finally stepping beyond the empire's borders to the academy that would shape her future.
The thought made her feel a strange mix of anticipation and unease. Her decision was final, but there was a part of her that couldn't help but linger in this place she had once called home.
She was folding a robe when the sound of hurried footsteps approached. Feng Jiao Xue didn't need to look up to know who it was. A familiar, carefree voice filled the air before she even saw him.
"Little Snow! Little Snow!"
Feng Haoyang appeared at the entrance of the courtyard, breathless and grinning like a fool. His robes were askew, his hair a mess, and there was a look in his eyes that could only mean one thing, he had come to see her off in his usual goofy way.
