The closer they came to Shrek City, the stronger the soul power in the air grew. Yuhao felt it, Tianyi felt it, even Tang Ya felt it — though she pretended to be unaffected.
Bei Bei walked ahead, explaining Shrek's rules.
"You'll both have to pass the entrance exam. Shrek doesn't accept anyone who fails, no matter their background."
Yuhao nodded earnestly.
Tianyi simply listened quietly.
Tang Ya poked Tianyi's ribs. "Hey. You're talented, but don't get cocky. Shrek is where monsters gather."
Tianyi answered calmly. "I don't intend to underestimate anyone."
Yuhao admired his composure."Tianyi… how long have you been playing qin? It sounds really…"
He searched for the right word.
"…beautiful."
Tianyi looked away, a gentle glimmer in his eyes."Since I can remember."
He didn't mention that the instrument was the only thing left from his parents — the only memory he never let fade.
Bei Bei suddenly stopped walking.
"We've reached the city gates."
Towering over them was the enormous stone wall of Shrek City, ancient and grand. Soul power rippled faintly from the inscriptions carved into the stone. People from all provinces traveled here, filling the roads like rivers of color.
Yuhao's breath caught. "So… this is it…"
Tang Ya smirked. "Impressed? Wait until you see the academy."
Tianyi felt a shiver of anticipation run through him.Not fear — but a quiet, determined excitement.
His fingers brushed the strings of his qin.The instrument trembled faintly, resonating with the powerful auras saturating the city.
Shrek will test me… and I will answer.