Chapter 23: From the Classroom to the Restaurant

Three hours later, the students were focused on their canvases, attentively following the teacher's instructions. The classroom was filled with soft murmurs and the sound of brushes gliding over canvas. The teacher, a woman of elegant demeanor, walked among the easels, observing each student's work.

"Remember, each brushstroke should be firm and precise," she said in a clear and authoritative voice. "Do not rush; patience is key in art. Blend the colors well to achieve the desired shades. Observe how the pigments mix and interact with light. A noble must master not only the sword but also the art."

The bell rang, and the teacher announced, "You may leave your canvases at the back of the class and then you may go."

The students began gathering their materials and placing their canvases at the rear of the classroom. Xue Feng, with a friendly smile, approached Xue Sha and said, "Sha Sha, would you like to eat with me?" as he put his arm around his shoulder in a familiar gesture.

Xue Sha frowned at the nickname, clearly annoyed by how he addressed him. Nevertheless, he replied firmly, "Let's go," and moved ahead, showing his displeasure with a brisk movement.

Slightly taken aback by the reaction, Xue Feng tried to keep pace. "Wait, don't walk so fast," he said with a nervous laugh, hurrying to catch up.

A few minutes later, they stood in front of a multi-story building housing numerous Chinese restaurants. Upon entering, they were greeted by vibrant chatter and the tempting aroma of various dishes.

Xue Feng looked at Xue Sha and asked, "Sha Sha, what would you like to eat?"

After a moment of thought, Xue Sha replied, "Hmm, some noodles."

"Noodles, huh?" Xue Feng made a decisive gesture, pounding his fist into his palm. "I know just the place! Let's go to the first floor, follow me."

They climbed the stairs and headed to an elegant restaurant. The interiors were luxurious, with sophisticated décor and carefully arranged tables. They chose to sit in a more secluded corner for privacy and began perusing the menu.

A waiter approached with a professional smile and asked, "Good afternoon, gentlemen. Are you ready to order? What would you like to drink?"

Xue Feng responded first, "For drinks, water."

Xue Sha followed, "Milk."

The waiter nodded, taking note accurately. "And what would you like to order for your meal?"

Xue Feng and Xue Sha reviewed the menu once more before making their choices.

Xue Feng: "For me, rice noodles with beef and vegetables, seafood lo mein, and chicken chow mein, please."

Xue Sha: "I'll have dan dan noodles, noodles with black bean sauce and meat, and pork chow mein."

The waiter smiled and said, "Excellent choices, gentlemen. We'll bring your drinks and dishes right away."

As the waiter withdrew, Xue Feng and Xue Sha relaxed in their seats, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the restaurant and awaiting their food.

The waiter returned with a glass of water and another with milk, placing them in front of Xue Feng and Xue Sha respectively. Then, he began bringing the dishes in several trips, ensuring every detail was perfect. Once all the dishes were on the table, he smiled and said, "Enjoy your meal," before discreetly stepping away.

As they started eating, Xue Feng broke the silence. "How have classes been?" he asked as he took a bite of pasta.

Xue Sha wiped his mouth with a napkin and replied unenthusiastically, "Boring," before taking a sip of milk.

Xue Feng smiled and, after chewing and swallowing his food, said, "Don't worry, the interesting part is coming up. If you've seen the schedule, it's always from 8 to 12 with noble stuff." He paused to take another bite before continuing. "Then we have a one-hour lunch break."

Xue Sha nodded as he savored his food, looking at Xue Feng with interest.

"In the afternoon," Xue Feng continued, "we have two more hours: one theory class on soul beasts, and the last hour is usually practice, mostly sparring among ourselves." He took a sip of water, letting the information sink in for Xue Sha.

"So, classes end at three," Xue Sha remarked as he took another bite from his plate.

They both continued eating in silence for a moment, enjoying the flavors of their chosen dishes. The conversation naturally paused, and they focused on their meals, savoring each bite.

After finishing, the waiter approached their table and informed them, "That will be 35 gold coins."

Quickly, Xue Feng took out 35 gold coins from his ring and handed them to the waiter. He looked at Xue Sha and said, "Don't worry, I'll pay."

Xue Sha nodded and replied, "Alright, but next time it's on me."

They finished their meal and stood up from the table. After paying, they exited the building and began walking back to their classes. As they walked, they sat on a bench under a tree, enjoying the fresh air.

"Do you know of any places that sell necklaces for men?" Xue Sha asked, looking at Xue Feng.

Xue Feng swung his feet as he thought and then replied, "Yes, I know a place. If you want, we can go after classes." His tone was relaxed, with a playful smile.

Xue Sha nodded, "Alright."

They remained there, chatting occasionally, enjoying the moment of tranquility. As it was nearly time to return, they stood up and continued walking back to their classroom.

Upon arrival, Xue Sha noticed the classroom was empty. "I think we've come too early," he commented as they sat down.

Xue Feng glanced at the clock and replied, "Well, there are five minutes left until classes start. The thing is, almost surely no one will come until the bell rings, or there might even be people who don't want to come for the two hours that are left."

Xue Sha nodded, "Okay, let me know when we're about to start class."

He placed his hands on the table and rested his head on them, closing his eyes and taking advantage of the calm moment before the next lesson began. Xue Feng remained by his side, watching as the classroom slowly filled up as the class start time approached.