Chapter 91: The Heart of the Academy

The first light of dawn bathed the academy grounds in a warm hue, casting long shadows on the cobbled paths. Li Yang, freshly dressed in a sleek black outfit, stepped out of his dormitory. Feng Xuan and Lisa, also neatly dressed, were not far behind. The trio descended the dormitory stairs, their footfalls in rhythm, only to find Zephyr waiting for them, a sheaf of papers in hand and a knowing smile on his face.

"Morning, newcomers," Zephyr greeted, his voice crisp and clear. "Ready for a whirlwind tour of the academy?"

After exchanging pleasantries, the group set off towards the Task Hall. As they walked, Zephyr spoke, "This academy is vast, not just in size but also in the opportunities it provides. While the five great mentors hold classes here, attendance is not mandatory. What is mandatory, however, is undertaking a mission every six months. These missions contribute to the academy's resources and reputation."

Feng Xuan raised an eyebrow. "So, essentially, they're our practical exams?"

Zephyr chuckled, "You could say that. But there's more. Every half a year, there's a ranking competition that everyone must participate in unless they're away on a mission. It's where students showcase their progress and battle prowess."

The group reached the grand edifice of the Task Hall. Its intricate carvings and towering pillars gave it an imposing look. Inside, a massive board displayed numerous scrolls, each detailing a different task. Students huddled around, discussing and choosing missions that suited their strengths.

Pointing to the board, Zephyr continued, "This is the Task Hall, the heart of our daily activities. Here, students select missions based on their strengths and team configurations."

Leading them out, Zephyr gestured to a magnificent building with a rotating emblem on top. "That is the Treasure Hall, where students exchange academic credits for various treasures and artifacts. A place I believe you'll visit often."

As they walked further, another striking structure came into view, adorned with statues of various creatures. "And that," Zephyr pointed, "is the Beast Hall. It houses an assortment of mystical creatures, which students can either store or obtain using their academic credits."

Their journey continued as they visited the Exchange Center, where students bartered items for credits, the Alchemy Lab, an enigmatic place filled with the scent of brewing potions and forging artifacts, and the Lecture Halls, where the great mentors imparted knowledge.

They then approached an arena, its boundaries marked with enchanted barriers. Inside, two students sparred, their skills evident in their swift movements and strikes. "The Combat Arena," Zephyr announced, "A place where students challenge one another, honing their skills and tactics."

However, what caught Li Yang's attention was a colossal structure at the academy's heart, guarded by a formidable beast with scales shimmering in an array of colors. Sensing his curiosity, Zephyr said, "Ah, the Forbidden Zone, located deep within the Principal's office. A place shrouded in mystery and guarded by that beast day in and day out. No one knows what lies within, and very few dare to find out."

The group paused, taking in the gravity of Zephyr's words. The Forbidden Zone's allure was undeniable, but the danger it represented was palpable.

With the tour concluding, Zephyr turned to the trio, "This academy is vast and filled with wonders. But remember, it's also fraught with challenges. Stay vigilant and always seek to improve."

With that, Zephyr led them back to their dormitory, leaving the newcomers with much to ponder as they embarked on their new journey.