The road continued its gradual ascent toward the city center where the academy stood. In the distance, the main towers of the three principal schools and the castle began to take shape against the horizon, their spires catching the late afternoon sun.
"Two hundred thousand points for Ren," Taro commented, looking with amazement at the pile of materials they had accumulated in two adjacent carts. "Even I obtained the equivalent of 155 thousand crystals... I never imagined we would get so much."
"And all thanks to Ren's instructions," Mira added, her voice filled with genuine admiration.
"It wasn't just because of me," Ren protested, genuinely uncomfortable with the exclusive credit. "Everyone did their part helping me get fresh tentacles and the 3 big guys, also carrying their own weight..."
"A great weight in skins," Min added with a grin, gesturing toward the overflowing carts trailing behind them.
