The atmosphere in the academy had shifted. It wasn't loud or obvious, but those who understood the unspoken hierarchy could feel it. With Leng Yiran's return, the balance of power had adjusted ever so slightly. A new player had entered the field—not necessarily an enemy, but not yet an ally.
Qingxue observed carefully.
The first test came sooner than expected.
During their advanced strategy class, where the academy's elite honed their negotiation and power tactics, the instructor introduced a scenario—a simulated corporate war. Two teams, each acting as opposing conglomerates, had to outmaneuver each other through alliances, betrayals, and calculated risks.
It should have been a typical exercise.
Except that Leng Yiran and Qingxue were placed on opposing sides.
Ruolan, ever the opportunist, managed to position herself on Leng Yiran's team. A strategic move—if she couldn't undermine Qingxue directly, she would use another.
Qingxue leaned back in her chair, assessing the pieces on the board. Qiuhan, as always, was by her side. Zhao Lihua sat across from them, her usual sharp grin in place, while Li Shen lounged lazily, but his golden eyes held a glint of mischief.
And then, there was Xu Yiran—silent, observant, always watching.
The game began.
Moves were made, alliances formed, and threats exchanged with polite smiles. Qingxue played her role flawlessly, securing early advantages, but Yiran was no fool. He countered her strategies with quiet efficiency, adapting without hesitation.
The others noticed.
Ruolan, sensing an opportunity, leaned toward Yiran. "We should push them into a corner. If we block their supply lines and cut off their reinforcements—"
Yiran glanced at her. His expression remained unreadable, but his next words sent a ripple through the room.
"No." He spoke casually. "That's too obvious. Qingxue wouldn't fall for something like that."
It was the first time he acknowledged her directly.
A few students exchanged glances. Even the instructor raised a brow.
Qingxue merely smiled.
He wasn't just playing to win—he was testing her.
Qiuhan, sitting beside her, tapped his fingers against the table. "Interesting."
The game continued, the tension tightening with every move.
By the time the final results were tallied, neither team had won outright. It was declared a draw—a rare occurrence in these simulations.
A statement.
Leng Yiran had made it clear: he wasn't here to be stepped on.
But neither was Qingxue.
As the class dispersed, Leng Yiran passed by her, pausing just long enough to say, "Not bad, Qingxue."
She met his gaze, her silver-blue eyes unreadable. "You too."
And just like that, the game between them had truly begun.