Chapter 5: 3 years Later

Three years had passed since Shun Lee found himself in this new world, and each day had been a blend of challenges and small triumphs. The changing seasons mirrored the flow of his life like spring's renewal, summer's intensity, autumn's calm, and winter's introspection. Every season brought new lessons, both in cultivation and self-discovery.

At nine years old, Shun Lee felt a sense of frustration towards his stunted growth. Despite his diligence in cultivating every day, his height remained barely that of an eight-year-old. Each glance in the mirror was a reminder of this helplessness, and it weighed on him. The world seemed to move forward, with peers growing taller and stronger, yet he remained physically stuck. His small frame often attracted misunderstanding or pity from others, which only deepened his feelings of inadequacy.

But what troubled him more than his physical quality was the limitation in his cultivation. While others could meditate for four to six hours, Shun Lee found his body faltering after just two or three. It was as if an invisible barrier sapped his strength, forcing him to stop just when he felt he was gaining momentum. This restriction gnawed at him. He poured over ancient texts and theories, seeking a reason for his limitation, but the answers eluded him.

Despite these setbacks, Shun Lee had made significant progress. He reminisced about his breakthrough a year ago, an event that hadn't gone unnoticed. The Federation had taken note of an orphan, despite without resources or a prestigious lineage, had managed to achieve something remarkable. Recognizing his potential, they granted Shun Lee some funds to visit the Spirit Pagoda, a rare opportunity to bond with a spirit beast and step onto the path of a soul master.

Perched on top of his window, Shun Lee, now resembling an 8-year-old in height, exuded a quiet yet adventurous energy. He wore a snug hoodie, the hood casually draped over his head, while a black striped hat peeked out beneath it. Despite the hat's attempt to contain it, his spiky black hair playfully stuck out in tufts, adding to his youthful charm. His small frame seemed relaxed, with legs dangling freely over the branch, giving him an air of carefree curiosity.

The hoodie's sleeves were slightly rolled up, revealing slender arms that caught the soft light of the evening. A gentle breeze ruffled the fabric of his hoodie, adding a sense of motion to the serene scene. His bright eyes reflected a mixture of curiosity and wonder as he gazed out at the sprawling city below, the twinkling lights painting a mesmerizing canvas against the night sky. His expression held a delicate balance between excitement and calm, as if savoring this moment of quiet observation from his lofty perch, embracing both the serenity of the present and the promise of adventure that lay ahead.

Sitting alone, Shun Lee often found himself lost in thought, reflecting on his unique position in this world. He knew that the story he had been thrown into was about to begin as the the destinies of key figures is about to start. 'The plot is about to begin,' he mused. The weight of the upcoming events was both a blessing and a curse. Since Shun Lee knew that any sort of trigger may lead the world into damnation due to his knowledge from his past life.

Shun Lee thoughts drifted to a particular event during his school trip to the hometown of the protagonist. It was there he met a girl, her eyes filled with curiosity and kindness. Their encounter was brief, yet it left a lasting impression on him.' Who was she? And why did she stir something within him—a strange mixture of familiarity and intrigue?'

As Shun Lee pondered these questions under the soft glow of the morning sky, he felt a renewed sense of determination. He was an anomaly in this world, yet he was here for a reason. Whether his path would intertwine with the destined heroes or forge a new narrative altogether, he knew he had to be ready.

With a deep breath, he whispered to himself, "I'll find my place in this story. No matter what it takes." And with that, Shun Lee walks out his room and took a one last look before leaving knowing this might be the last time.

Shun Lee left his room, the morning light barely filtering through the orphanage windows. The usual chatter of the early risers echoed faintly through the halls as he made his way to the cafeteria. He grabbed his tray of food and scanned the room, his eyes landing on a familiar figure sitting alone, head down, and uncharacteristically quiet.

'Wu Pei.'

Shun Lee raised an eyebrow. Wu Pei who always the lively one yet sat motionless, absentmindedly poking at his food. Intrigued, Shun Lee quietly approached and set his tray down across from him. Without a word, he nudged Wu Pei's head lightly with his knuckles.

"Hey, squid head," Shun Lee said with a teasing grin.

Wu Pei winced, rubbing his head. "Ow! What was that for?"

"You were daydreaming," Shun Lee replied, smirking. "Figured I'd bring you back to Earth. What's got you so lost in thought? Don't tell me… you got rejected again?"

Wu Pei's face flushed red. "Shut up! That's not it!"

Shun Lee chuckled. "Come on, Wu Pei, we both know you've been mooning over her for ages. What was her name again? Oh yeah, Mei Ling—"

"Don't you dare!" Wu Pei snapped, eyes wide in panic, cutting Shun Lee off. "That was a year ago, and it wasn't even like that!"

Shun Lee leaned back, crossing his arms with a playful smirk. "Sure, sure. Whatever you say."

Wu Pei sighed deeply, his playful aggression fading into a somber expression. "Look, Shun, it's not about that. This… this is the last time we'll be here, together."

Shun Lee's smile faded as the weight of Wu Pei's words sank in.

"We're going to different academies," Wu Pei continued, his voice low. "You're going to do great things, I know it. But me? I've always dreamed of being a soul master, but dreams are just that—dreams. My martial spirit isn't strong enough, and I don't have your talent. I'm just… average."

Shun Lee stared at his friend, the usual banter giving way to a heavy silence. He reached across the table, placing a firm hand on Wu Pei's shoulder.

"You're not average, Wu Pei. You've got more determination than anyone I know. You think talent is all that matters? It's not. Hard work, heart—that's what makes a real soul master."

Wu Pei shook his head, his eyes downcast. "Easy for you to say. You've got the potential. You'll thrive. Me? I'll be lucky to scrape by."

Shun Lee tightened his grip on Wu Pei's shoulder. "Listen to me. This isn't the end. We'll be apart, yeah, but that doesn't mean you stop trying. You've got it in you to be great, Wu Pei. Don't give up on yourself."

Wu Pei glanced up, a flicker of hope in his eyes. "You really think so?"

"I know so," Shun Lee replied firmly. "We've been through too much for me to doubt it. Just promise me one thing—don't let that fire in you die."

Wu Pei nodded slowly, a small but genuine smile forming. "I'll try, Shun. I'll try."

They sat in silence for a moment, the bustling cafeteria around them seeming to fade away. The gravity of their impending separation hung in the air, but so did the unspoken bond of friendship that would carry them through whatever came next.

After a moment, Wu Pei spoke again, his voice steadier. "Thanks, Shun. You've always had my back."

Shun Lee grinned. "Always will. Now, come on, finish your breakfast. We've got a big day ahead."

Wu Pei chuckled, picking up his chopsticks. "Yeah, can't face the world on an empty stomach."

And with that, the two friends shared a quiet but significant moment, knowing that no matter where life took them, their friendship would remain a constant.

Shun Lee and Wu Pei quickly ate peacefully and savoring their last meal as though enjoying the moment and not long after they headed to the corridor toward the dean's office, their footsteps echoing in the quiet hall. The air between them buzzed with a mix of anticipation and lingering curiosity. Wu Pei, unable to contain himself any longer, turned to Shun Lee.

"Hey, Shun," Wu Pei began, his tone casual but with a hint of persistence, "you've got to tell me, just once more—what soul ring ability did you get at the spirit pagoda?"

Shun Lee sighed, shaking his head with a faint smile. "Wu Pei, how many times do we have to go over this? It's nothing special, just a weak ability. I had a failed experimental soul spirit in my attempt."

Wu Pei frowned, clearly dissatisfied. "Come on, we're about to go our separate ways. Don't you think I deserve to know?"

Shun Lee chuckled softly. "Maybe one day, Wu Pei. But for now, just trust me when I say it's nothing worth getting excited about."

They reached the dean's office before Wu Pei could press further. Shun Lee gave his friend a reassuring pat on the back, and they both straightened up before entering.

Inside, the room was warm and filled with the faint scent of old books. Sitting behind the large, wooden desk was Sister Mei, a gentle but commanding presence. Her eyes sparkled with pride and a touch of melancholy as she looked at the two boys.

"Ah, there you are," she greeted them, her voice soft yet steady. "I've been waiting for you."

On the desk before her were two neatly sealed recommendation letters. She picked them up and handed one to each boy, her hands trembling slightly as she did.

"These letters mark the next step in your journeys," Sister Mei said, her voice thick with emotion. "Shun Lee, a future soul master, and Wu Pei, ready to carve out a new path for yourself."

Wu Pei glanced down at the letter in his hands, his expression a mix of gratitude and sadness. "Thank you, Sister Mei. I'll do my best."

Shun Lee bowed his head respectfully. "We both will. Thank you for everything."

Sister Mei's eyes glistened as she fought to keep her composure. "You boys have grown so much. It's hard to see you leave, but I know you'll do great things. Remember, no matter where you go, this place will always be your home."

The room fell into a poignant silence, the weight of their impending departure settling heavily on all three of them. Sister Mei reached out, placing a hand on each of their shoulders.

"Go forth with courage," she whispered. "And remember, the bonds you've formed here will always be a source of strength."

Sister Mei, seeing the mix of emotions on their faces, smiled warmly. "Oh, one more thing," she added, her tone gentle yet firm. "Your belongings will be waiting for you at the academy."

Wu Pei, curious, quickly tore open his recommendation letter. His eyes widened as he read the details, his jaw dropping slightly. "A musical academy?" he muttered in disbelief. "For prodigies?"

Shun Lee, standing beside him, glanced at the letter and broke into a wide grin. "A musical school, huh? Looks like you're really destined to become a star, Wu Pei!" His eyes twinkled mischievously. "Imagine all the fame, fortune, and adoring fans. You'll be rolling in cash in no time with a nickname of Rock n Roll Calamari Squidball."

Wu Pei's face turned bright red, his usual confidence faltering. "I'm not going to become some...some sort of musical squid!" he retorted, his voice rising in protest. "And what does that even mean?"

Shun Lee couldn't help but laugh, enjoying his friend's flustered state. "A musical squid, you know, all slimy and...musical." He wiggled his fingers mockingly, pretending to play an invisible instrument. "I can see it now, Wu Pei, the legendary idol. You'll be swimming in fans like an octopus wriggles in the sea."

Wu Pei grumbled, his ears burning. "Stop it, Shun! You're making it sound ridiculous!"

Sister Mei chuckled softly at their banter, her heartwarming at the sight of their camaraderie. She stepped forward, enveloping both boys in a gentle hug. "You two," she whispered, "take care of each other out there. The journey ahead is full of challenges, but I know you'll face them with courage and determination."

The weight of her words settled over them, bringing a rare moment of quiet reflection. Wu Pei's eyes filled with tears as the memories of the past nine years—filled with laughter, tears, and shared struggles—flooded his mind. Silent tears rolled down his cheeks as he clutched the letter tightly.

Shun Lee, usually so composed, felt a wave of nostalgia wash over him. The orphanage had been their home, their sanctuary. The thought of leaving it behind filled him with a bittersweet ache. He didn't cry, but his heart felt heavy, the memories of their time together vivid and poignant.

After a long moment, Wu Pei sniffled, wiping his eyes. "I'm going to miss this place," he admitted quietly.

Shun Lee nodded, placing a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder. "Me too. But we've got to keep moving forward, right?"

Wu Pei managed a weak smile. "Yeah, I guess so."

Sister Mei watched them with pride and a touch of sadness. "Remember," she said softly, "no matter where life takes you, this will always be your home. And I will always be here, rooting for you both."

With a final embrace, she released them, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. Wu Pei and Shun Lee stood there for a moment longer, absorbing the gravity of their parting. Then, with a shared nod, they turned and walked away, their steps heavy but resolute, ready to face the new chapters awaiting them.