The morning of departure dawned gray across Shrek Academy, as if the sky itself watched to see whether their monsters truly had fangs. Wagons stood loaded, horses snorting clouds. Students bustled, nervous energy bright in cheeks. Dai Mubai strode like white tiger already savoring fights, Hongjun joked to mask nerves, Ning Rongrong pouted at small carriages.
Leng Xue moved more quietly, helping secure ropes, freezing crates of supplies with thin veil of frost to preserve goods. Villagers gathered at gate to wave farewell. Some whispered warmly, "Bring honor, Frost Brother." For Xue, those simple words meant more than any roar.
The journey south was long. Caravans mixed, merchants nervous, bearing closer to imperial hubs where all academies gathered. On road, other schools' banners glittered—proud names inked across emblems. Many mocked Shrek's shabby crest. "A rag academy dares join?" Some sneered outright when they saw Xue with his thin frame and pallor. "Is that one even real student?"
He answered with silence. Patience was creed. But inside, vow burned—when frost barrier rose before thousands, sneers would choke.
First clash came not in arena but forest ambush. Bandit cultivators sought caravans. Shrek group responded fast. Tang San's coordination, Mubai's fury, Flender's watch disguised behind, all surged. Xue again anchored with frost wall, halting arrows rain while Oscar boosted, Rongrong behind. No fanfare, only necessary. Merchants awed, whispers travelling: "Even weak‑looking frost boy generated wall like fortress."
When night fell, Tang San sat near him by fire, whispering, "Others will mock again tomorrow, but frost proves when flames rage. Lean on me, I lean on you." Xue lowered eyes, faint smile breaking. The alliance grew.