*Chapter 49: Legends in the Light*
The return to Jade Spirit Academy was nothing like their hurried departure. This time, the main gate swung open to thunderous cheers. Banners rippled in every breeze: "Nightwatch—Our Protectors!" Students lined the walkways, clapping and shouting their names, pressing flowers and small good luck charms into their hands.
For the first time, nobody called them outcasts. First years jostled to ask for training tips. Older students who'd once hissed insults now offered shy, grateful smiles. Jin Ming found himself grinning at a group of rivals and realizing he finally felt like he belonged.
Inside, the headmistress greeted them with a speech in the packed great hall, her voice trembling, "You have changed this school, and you have changed the world. But the battle is not yet done. We sense a stirring—something vast, dark, and ancient gathering beyond our walls."
Celebrations brought laughter but also a strange hush, as if everyone knew this might be peace's last blush. At the heart of the party, Nightwatch clustered together. Mei Fen teased Jin Ming about his new "fan club." Jin Ming tried to act like it annoyed him, but gave her a secret smile. Yan caught Bao Yu quietly crafting protective charms for their team and slipped one onto his wrist with a wink, blush hidden by her hair.
Later that night, the elders brought news that chilled every heart. "The darkness is multiplied," their voices echoed, filled with old sorrow and hope. "It calls to those who despair; cracks form in every corner of our world. Nightwatch will decide whether the dawn comes—together, or not at all."
Fear crept in around the edges of their courage. Mei Fen became quieter, staring into the fire as the others slept, wondering if she could face another loss. Jin Ming and Bao Yu trained late into the night, pushing each other with gentle jibes, desperate to be ready for anything. Yan, always so steady, found herself haunted by visions of darkness seeping through the roots beneath the school.
Only in their private circle, under the ancient cherry trees, did Nightwatch admit their deepest fears—of failing, of losing each other, of the burden now laid upon their shoulders. Xiulan pressed close to Li Wei. "Whatever happens, I'm proud of who you are—power or no power." He smiled, letting her warmth ground him, even as the energy of the elements pulsed wild in his veins.
The academy buzzed with preparations: new recruitments, scholars pouring over ancient scrolls, professors reinforcing magical defenses. Yet in quiet moments, Li Wei's team walked the grounds, sharing old jokes, remembering every trial that brought them to this night.
On the eve of the final day, lanterns were lit and wishes tied to each tree in the courtyard—a thousand prayers for courage, safety, hope. Nightwatch gathered for one last time alone beneath the stars. Jin Ming grasped Mei Fen's hand, Yan pressed Bao Yu's arm, Xiulan leaned into Li Wei's side, all of them breathing together, certain of only one thing.
"We started as outcasts. We'll finish as a family," Li Wei whispered. "And no darkness can ever break that."
Morning was rising. In every corner of the world, shadows shifted—preparing. And at Jade Spirit Academy, a legend waited to be completed.