Quinn Shepherd slowly exhaled a breath of stale air. The news was so shocking that he needed time to digest it.
The post of Grand Rector of the Imperial Academy may officially be high third-rank, seemingly not that exalted, but in truth it is far too important. The Imperial Academy oversees all cultivation methods and divine arts in the realm, compiling them into volumes—it is the sacred ground of martial and mystical arts, supreme above all others.
Moreover, most officials of the Everpeace Empire come from the Imperial Academy. Everyone who graduates from there can be considered a disciple of the Young Heavenly Demon Patriarch, bound by the ties of master and student.
The post may not be grand, but its influence is overwhelming!
And with the Young Heavenly Demon Patriarch's hidden identity added in, it becomes truly terrifying.
Serena Vale said, "Since you’ve come to me, young master, you should rest for a few days and visit the Imperial Academy another time. But if you wish to enter the Academy, you’ll need to pass a few tests."
Quinn asked in confusion, "What kind of tests?"
"Not just anyone can enter the Imperial Academy. You must first become a Great Academician to be admitted."
Serena Vale smiled, "The Patriarch’s intention is for you to become a Great Academician first. This year’s examination is about to begin. You’ll take the test alongside scholars from all over, and once you pass, you can enter."
"Thank you, Sister Yuner."
Quinn let out a sigh of relief and smiled, "I still don’t have a place to stay, so I’ll just stay with Sister Serena for a few days."
Serena Vale lowered her voice, "Young master, you’re welcome to stay here, but you should watch out for a few of my mischievous musician girls. They’re always scheming, desperate to climb over me and become the Cult Mistress themselves."
Quinn blushed fiercely and stammered, "Really? There’s such a thing?"
Serena giggled, "Young master, you’re far too easy for them to tease. Come with me, I’ve already arranged a room for you."
The room Serena prepared was elegant and refined, but from the decor it was clearly a girl’s room—even the bedding smelled sweet and fragrant. Serena quickly explained, "This is just where I take naps. If you’re not comfortable, I can arrange another room."
"No need."
Quinn set his bundle down on the table. Serena lingered in the room, biting her red lips and softly asking, "Is there anything else you’d like, young master?"
"No, thank you, Sister Serena."
Just as Quinn was speaking, his bundle twitched and out popped a little white fox with a tiny pack on its back. Serena glanced over, turned to leave, and muttered, "No wonder—he brought his own little fox spirit…"
Lina reeked of alcohol. Quinn frowned, "Lina, you were hiding in the bundle and sneaking drinks again!"