Han Xiao tried several times to reconnect with the Law of Gravity, but each attempt ended in frustration. The clarity he had felt seemed to slip further away with every effort. After countless tries, he finally accepted that he had hit a wall and decided to end his training for the day.

As he stepped out of the hall, Han Xiao was greeted by Ji Ying and Han Xue, both of whom had been waiting for him. They smiled warmly as they approached.

“Brother Han, how’s the training going?” Ji Ying asked, her eyes full of curiosity.

Han Xiao managed a small smile, though his thoughts were still on his training. “It’s coming along, slowly but surely,” he replied.

Han Xue nodded encouragingly. “You’ve always been determined. I’m sure you’ll master it soon enough.”

As they spoke, Han Xiao noticed Ji Hao nearby, a middle-aged-looking man who was leaning against a wall with his eyes half-closed, pretending to be dozing. It was clear to Han Xiao that Ji Hao was only feigning sleep, likely to avoid acknowledging him.

Han Xiao’s gaze lingered on Ji Hao for a moment, but he decided to let it go. There were more pressing matters on his mind than Ji Hao’s antics. Taking a deep breath, he set aside his thoughts of training and Ji Hao’s pretense, focusing instead on his conversation with Ji Ying and Han Xue.

As they chatted, Ji Ying’s eyes lit up with an idea. “You know, there’s still over a week left before the competition,” she began, glancing between Han Xiao and Han Xue. “Why don’t we take a break from all this training and roam outside the academy for a bit? We could explore the nearby towns or maybe visit some of the markets. It’ll be a good change of pace.”

Han Xiao nodded thoughtfully but then added, “That sounds like a good plan, but because of the recent assassination attempt on me, the academy will be sending an expert to watch over us. They’ll be lurking nearby for our safety. Will that be a problem for you?”

Ji Ying shrugged, a confident smile on her face. “Not at all. If anything, it’ll make me feel safer knowing someone is watching our backs.”

Han Xue chimed in, her eyes brightening. “I’ve heard there are some beautiful spots outside the academy, and the markets are full of interesting things. It’ll be fun to explore together.”

Ji Ying, still energized by the idea, clapped her hands together. “So why wait until tomorrow? Let’s go today! The sooner we get out of here, the better.”

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Han Xiao couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. “You’re right, no point in waiting. Let’s head out today and make the most of it.”

With the plan set, the three of them felt a renewed sense of excitement, eager to take a break from their rigorous training and enjoy some time together exploring the world outside the academy.

As they made their way toward the main gate of the academy, Han Xiao reminded his companions, “You know, to get outside the premises, we either need to be on a mission or pay a hefty price. So, let’s be prepared.”

Ji Ying nodded confidently. “I’ve got it covered. Let’s see if we can get through without too much hassle.”

When they reached the main gate, a guard clad in full armor stepped forward, his voice stern as he shouted, “Show me your document or just get lost!”

Han Xiao exchanged a glance with Ji Ying and Han Xue before stepping forward. “We’re here for a temporary leave. Our documents should be in order.”

Ji Ying swiftly produced a rolled-up document and handed it to the guard with a polite smile. “Here you go.”

As the guard scrutinized the document, both Han Xiao and Han Xue subtly eyed Ji Ying, impressed by her calm and composed demeanor. They couldn’t help but think, She’s so good at this. No doubt, she’s the princess of the Zhao.

After a few moments, the guard grunted in approval, handing the document back to Ji Ying. “You’re clear to leave. But remember any trouble outside and you’re on your own. The academy won’t send help.”

Han Xiao nodded in acknowledgment. “Understood. We’ll be careful.”

With the guard’s approval, the gate slowly creaked open, and the trio stepped outside the academy’s premises, ready to explore the world beyond its walls.

As Han Xiao, Ji Ying, and Han Xue stepped through the gate, they were once again struck by the contrast between the inside of the academy and the world beyond its walls. The road outside was well-maintained, a smooth path that stretched out into the distance, bordered by a rich tapestry of green. Lush forests lined the horizon, their dense canopies swaying gently in the breeze, creating a vivid contrast to the more structured and orderly environment they had just left behind.

Though this wasn’t the first time Han Xiao and Han Xue had ventured beyond the academy’s walls, they still felt a surge of energy and happiness at the sight. The world outside had an ancient, almost timeless quality, with massive trees whose gnarled trunks and sprawling roots spoke of centuries of growth. The greenery was wild and untamed, spreading out in every direction with a vitality that seemed to breathe life into the very air.

As they walked along the road, they spotted various vendors setting up stalls a few yards away from the academy’s wall. Makeshift tents and carts were arranged in a loose formation, offering an array of goods from fresh produce to exotic trinkets. The vendors were busy preparing for the day, their voices rising in lively chatter as they haggled and bartered with early customers.

Further down the road, people moved in small groups, some leading beasts of burden laden with goods, others walking in chains of partnership, ready to engage in business. The scene was vibrant and bustling, a stark contrast to the more subdued and focused atmosphere within the academy.

Even though they had seen it all before, Han Xiao and Han Xue couldn’t help but feel invigorated by the rich tapestry of life that surrounded them. With renewed excitement, they continued down the road, eager to explore what lay beyond.

Ji Ying touched the azure-green ring on her finger, and with a shimmer of light, a golden chariot appeared before them. The chariot was drawn by two peculiar golden horses that, upon closer inspection, seemed more like exquisitely crafted puppets.

Stepping gracefully into the chariot, Ji Ying turned and said with a smile, “Aren’t you coming in?”

Han Xiao and Han Xue quickly followed, climbing into the chariot. Inside, they were surprised to find it far more spacious than it looked from the outside. They settled onto the soft, plush cushions, enjoying the unexpected comfort.

As the puppet horses let out a series of melodious neighs, they began to move, lifting the chariot off the ground. The horses extended their golden wings, and the chariot smoothly began to ascend, rising gently into the air. The world below grew smaller as they soared higher, embarking on an enchanting journey above the landscape.