Chapter 75 – Re-acquaintance

The whole venue fell silent.

The principal awkwardly stepped forward to ease the tension, asking, “Whose cat is this?”

Those sitting in the first row from the SA class were somewhat embarrassed by this unexpected inquiry. Nan Feng was the first to raise his hand and respond, “Reporting, it’s ours.”

“Ridiculous!” The principal reprimanded, “What’s the point of bringing a cat to a meeting? Go back and write a self-reflection!”

Nan Feng sighed helplessly, “Yes, Principal.”

If this was an ordinary student from another department, they might have been expelled on the spot for this act. But not him, not the SA class—they held privileges here. Bringing a cat along was not a big issue.

Lu Xingwang stood on the stage, looking down at the cat.

A peculiarly long gaze was exchanged between man and cat. Jian Mei was filled with hope. Initially, he hadn’t thought much of being accidentally transformed into a cat, assuming he could change back later. Yet, never had he expected to coincidentally encounter DaZhuang ge here!

Observing the prince’s gaze at the cat, the principal tentatively asked, “Your Highness, do you dislike cats? If not, shall I have it removed?”

There were rumors about the prince’s unpredictable temperament, so the principal didn’t dare to make assumptions.

In truth, having managed to invite Lu Xingwang was already a pleasant surprise, and they naturally wanted to treat him well.

Lu Xingwang’s profound eyes finally shifted away from the cat, and he spoke, “There’s no need.”

Then, the highly anticipated speech from His Royal Highness began. The students attending this school were naturally quite proud, but regarding Lu Xingwang standing on that stage, no one had any objections.

Some went as far as discreetly taking notes.

Others sneakily took pictures and posted them on the campus network, smitten:

“Crown Prince is so handsome.”

“His voice while speaking is so charming.”

“Even though disfigured, he looks cool with the mask!”

In any galaxy or any world, the infatuated group will always remain unchanged.

After the speech concluded, the entire auditorium erupted in applause. Lu Xingwang stepped down from the stage, and while the principal continued with his address, Jian Mei wasn’t paying attention at all. His eyes were fixed on Lu Xingwang’s departing figure.

Next to him, Nan Feng playfully teased, “Even as a cat, you’re still eyeing handsome guys?”

Jian Mei glared at him angrily.

Qiao ge patted the cat’s head and said, “It’s his first time seeing all this; it’s normal to want to look around.”

The main event here, of course, was the prince’s speech. After Lu Xingwang finished speaking, most students weren’t too interested in the following familiar procedures.

Once it was all over, the SA class exited the auditorium.

At the entrance, some witnessed the prince talking to the principal, and a few bolder individuals stayed back, watching from afar, not daring to get too close.

Jian Mei also wanted to take a peek, but Qiao ge held him back, “Mei Mei, the principal doesn’t like to see little cats.”

Nan Feng chuckled, “He’s not interested in seeing the principal; I’d say he’s clearly eager to see Crown Prince.”

Jian Mei didn’t argue with Nan Feng. From a certain perspective, he did indeed want to see Crown Prince. The key was, they weren’t letting him! The group had to leave through the evacuation route and head back to their teaching building, distancing Jian Mei further away. Anxiously, he let out a soft “Meow~”

The crisp meowing sounded cute and gentle in his ears.

Though not particularly loud, after it sounded, unexpectedly, Lu Xingwang, who had been talking with the principal, turned his head. Even though there were quite a few people between them, and the distance wasn’t close, his black eyes seemed to penetrate through, locking onto Jian Mei.

It felt as if they were having a silent exchange.

Even the principal, engaged in conversation with Lu Xingwang, noticed. He followed the prince’s gaze and hesitantly asked, “Your Highness, is something wrong?”

Lu Xingwang slowly averted his gaze and spoke, “I heard that this year, the SA class made an exception and admitted an extra student.”

The principal was internally surprised.Indeed, the Crown prince was the prince, and it seemed nothing could escape his notice. It felt as though everything was laid bare before him.So, reluctantly, he admitted, “Yes, there’s a special kid named Jian Mei, so we made an exception. It’s strange, though; his stone color is the same as yours from years ago, but he can’t use divine powers. I can’t find any issues, and even I find it puzzling. Maybe Your Highness knows something?”

Lu Xingwang thought to himself, “I know exactly what it is. That’s my power.”

But outwardly, the Crown prince remained expressionless. He said, “I hadn’t heard or read about this before. Since you say so, Principal, I’d like to meet him.”

As a member of the royal family and due to his special circumstances, he couldn’t openly investigate or directly single out an individual. While such an approach could offer a certain level of protection, it could also be exploited by someone with ill intentions towards that child, even targeting Jian Mei.

Without complete certainty, Lu Xingwang’s greatest skill has always been strategizing. He’d waited for a year and, nearing the end, he would slowly and step by step achieve his goal.

The principal indeed had no suspicions: “It’s really strange. That child didn’t show up at the meeting.”

“Nowadays, those kids from SA class are really unruly. It’s far worse compared to when you were here.” The principal chuckled and sighed,”You’ve seen them; they’re quite a handful.”

Lu Xingwang’s gaze remained cold and he responded, “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen that building. Today, seeing them, I do miss it somewhat.”

The principal happily said, “Then let me take you for a stroll!”

Lu Xingwang’s plan succeeded, but the Crown Prince remained courteous: “I’ll graciously follow your lead.”

On the other side,

Jian Mei didn’t know if Lu Xingwang recognized him. But thinking about it, it seemed unlikely because who could recognize a cat? That’s clearly not very scientific.

Nan Feng said, “The car’s here.”

The group got on the car one by one.

Jian Mei, in the end, couldn’t speak to the Crown Prince. He seemed a bit down in the car. Qiao ge thought it might be because he felt uncomfortable being little cat, so he reassured him, saying, “I’ll contact the clan leader soon to inquire.”

Sakura asked from the side, “Is there any problem?”

“To be honest, I’m not too sure. Because this is the first time I’ve transformed a living thing. My divine power before were completely insufficient for this level.” Qiao ge looked at the little cat in his arms. “I don’t know what happened either.”

Ying added, “It seems like I became stronger suddenly last time. That was to save Mei Mei, but afterward, when I practiced on my own, it didn’t work.”

Nan Feng teased, “So your problems arise because you touched him, right?”

Initially just a playful comment, meant to lighten the mood, but unexpectedly, after it was said, an eerie silence enveloped the car compartment.

Nan Feng’s smile froze gradually, and he slowly spoke, “That can’t be…”

Unheard of.

Is this an Enhancer-type Divine Power?

It’s terrifying. How could someone actually possess this seemingly useless yet heaven-defying abilities?

Nan Feng hesitated, “Should I try?”

Jian Mei got agitated when Nan Feng reached out to him, his fur bristling. The little cat bared its teeth, refusing to be approached.

Nan Feng felt hurt, “Do you hate me that much?”

Ying suddenly sounded a bit mischievous, “Serves you right! You were so aggressive at the start. Now you regret it, huh?”

“I just wanted to test it.” Nan Feng edged closer, “No more anger, alright? If not, I’ll sneak Ying’s little fire dragon for you to play with.”

Jian Mei remained snuggled in Qiao ge’s arms, ignoring him.

Ying caught Nan Feng’s ear, “What did you say?”

Nan Feng winced, “My bad, my bad, I was wrong. Let go, will you? Are you planning to fight in the car?”

These two always seemed ready to fight at the slightest provocation.

Yunshi, with a good temper, chimed in, “This violates school rules, you know. If caught, you’ll have to write a self-reflection.”

Sure enough, after that was said, both of them became more obedient, at least for the moment giving up on the idea of fighting in the car. The most painful thing in the world is having to write a self-reflection.

Jian Mei remained gloomy.

Back in the dorm, Qiao ge immediately contacted his family, asking if they could reach his grandfather. Qiao ge’s father was astonished to hear that his son could even transform people. “You’ve really reached this level?”

Now only Grandpa could do that.

Even Qiao ge’s father found it hard. How could his son possess such a talent?

Qiao ge’s father was excited, “Son, you’ve made progress!”

“Not really.” Qiao ge was never good at expressing himself. He didn’t know how to explain at the moment, just saying, “Father, please think of a solution first. My classmate is still in animal form.”

Qiao ge’s father hesitated, “It’s not that I don’t want to help, but the problem is, your grandpa just went on a trip to an alien planet recently!”

……

Qiao ge’s heart felt a bit overwhelmed, “So you mean…”

“Ask your classmates to tolerate it for now.” Qiao ge’s father sighed, “Actually, there’s not just your grandpa who can unravel illusions in our family. There are many extraordinary people in the world. Your father also has some connections. I’ll inquire about it. If needed, I’ll personally go.”

Qiao ge quickly nodded, “That’s good.”

After finishing up, Qiao ge returned to the dorm. He was hesitating about how to approach Jian Mei and explain things when Nan Feng came in from downstairs, “Everyone, come out! Just got a notification from the principal. The Crown Prince is coming to visit our old dormitory!”

Instantly, everyone was in a frenzy.

The usually laid-back Ying suddenly darted back to the room, tidying up the mess. Nan Feng rushed to his room to stash away a forbidden item. The group of usually haughty students, upon hearing about the Crown Prince’s visit, got as nervous as elementary school students facing their teacher.

Soon, there were voices at the dorm entrance.

The students rushed out and saw, not far from the hot spring pool, Lu Xingwang and the principal standing there. As they slowly approached, although the principal had white hair and Lu Xingwang was barely in his twenties, he still carried a commanding presence compared to the principal. When he strolled closer, there was an imposing aura.

The principal inquired, “Where’s Jian Mei?”

The students exchanged glances, afraid to speak.

After all, transforming a classmate into an animal, even if not intentional, would have severe consequences. Qiao ge would definitely face punishment, and they as witnesses might also be penalized.

Luckily, a few students weren’t too timid. Qiao ge sluggishly lifted the cat, “Here he is.”

The principal widened his eyes in surprise. He was somewhat amazed as he received the cat, wanting to examine it, but not being accustomed to holding cats with both hands. This posture could cause discomfort.

Jian Mei made a soft sound and, taking advantage of the principal’s hand, jumped into the arms of someone nearby. Though this action was sudden, the Crown Prince, contrary to his stern and formidable image in others’ eyes, swiftly caught the cat. Rather than immediately tossing it away or grabbing it forcefully, he helped stabilise the cat’s position and then let it lie in his arms.

Lu Xingwang emitted a faint fragrance. Jian Mei was initially a bit scared, but after a little nudge against Lu Xingwang, strangely felt relieved.

Qiao ge was a bit worried, fearing Jian Mei might go too far. If the cat was to scratch the Crown Prince, it would be a disaster. So he hurriedly said, “Jian Mei, come here, to me.”

Jian Mei peeked out a little head, not wanting to move.

“Jian Mei, come over here,” Nan Feng also called out.

Jian Mei hesitated for a moment.

Seeing Jian Mei not coming over, Qiao ge, mustering up his courage, walked over and smiled at Lu Xingwang, “Your Highness, I’m sorry. Jian Mei just started school and doesn’t quite understand the rules yet. Let me bring him over now.”

As Jian Mei realized it would be separated from the Crown Prince again, its tiny claws scratched Lu Xingwang, making a whimpering sound.

A hint of amusement flickered in Lu Xingwang’s eyes. He subtly avoided Qiao ge’s reaching hand, “No need, he’s under an illusion. I’m just checking.”

Qiao ge paused in his steps.

The Crown Prince truly lived up to his title. It turned out he had been holding the cat all this while because of this. Even after graduation, he still cared for his classmates and the crowd; a level of concern they could never match!

The principal said, “Qiao, has your Divine Power reached this level?”

Qiao ge was speechless. He hurriedly explained the cause and effect, concluding that the current issue was his grandfather’s absence. While there were people who could dispel illusions, finding someone capable of dispelling such high-level illusions might take some time.

The Principal worriedly remarked, “If a person is under the influence of illusions for too long, it might lead to problems.”

Jian Mei was frightened and instinctively moved closer to Lu Xingwang.

Lu Xingwang extended his slender hand to stroke its little head and gently said, “His Majesty has always valued talents. The palace has attracted many extraordinary teachers in the early years. If the principal is willing, let me take this student first. I will take him back to the palace and arrange for his treatment.”

The principal didn’t have any objections.

If something happened to a student right after admission, it would reflect poorly on him.

Qiao ge was also delighted, “Jian Mei, you’re saved.”

Nan Feng sighed softly, “Fools are blessed”

After hearing this, Jian Mei glared at Nan Feng. Just as Nan Feng was about to make a face back at him, Lu Xingwang, who had been looking down at the cat, raised his head. With a cool glance, he made Nan Feng shrink back just like a cub being bullied. Although he couldn’t win a fight, the backing he had wasn’t something to be trifled with. With just one look, Nan Feng felt intimidated.

The principal added, “Jian Mei, you’re so fortunate. Going back with His Highness, you must remember His Highness’s favor and behave, understand?”

The little cat nodded.

Because they needed to visit some dormitories, although the treatment plan had been set, Lu Xingwang still had to accompany the principal for a round due to official duties. At the beginning, Jian Mei could still manage to stay awake, but later on, as he listened, he couldn’t help but doze off. He curled up into a small bundle in Lu Xingwang’s arms and even started to snore softly.

When Lu Xingwang finally finished the tour and returned to his carriage, A Ruo was the first to get off. She approached a little closer, somewhat surprised upon seeing a cat. “Your Highness, where did this cat come from?”

Lu Xingwang: “Found it.”

?

Found it? Where did you find it?

When did you start liking cats?

A Ruo suppressed the words in her heart and tentatively asked, “Shall I hold the cat?”

His Highness usually liked peace and quiet, so he generally wouldn’t refuse. But unexpectedly, when he looked at the cat sleeping in his arms, he declined, “No need.”

…

Your Highness, something seems off!

A Ruo vaguely felt that the last time His Highness was acting strangely was a long, long time ago. That was when His Highness had just been poisoned. At that time, His Highness often did things that seemed off, but it had been almost a year since then.

The carriage was heading towards the palace.

An official sent a message: “Your Highness, the schedule for tonight has been arranged. Could you please take a look?”

This was all part of Lu Xingwang’s regular workload.

However, this time, Lu Xingwang replied, “Cancel it. I have something to attend to tonight.”

?

The official was shocked after seeing the message.

Aren’t I the one managing your work and affairs? What is going on with you?!

For other people, “having something” could mean personal matters, like a date with someone. But Your Highness, being alone for so many years, It’s really hard to imagine, okay?

As the carriage was about to return to the palace, the little cat in his arms still hadn’t woken up.

Lu Xingwang said to A Ruo, “Arrange for someone to invite Nangong Xun over from Father Emperor’s palace, and tell him it’s urgent.’

A Ruo hurriedly responded, “Yes.”

“Wait a moment.” When A Ruo was about to leave, Lu Xingwang looked up. “Have the palace prepare some sweet fruits, a fruit platter, and desserts, just like before.”

A Ruo was stunned.

“Just like before,” over a year ago, these were regularly kept in the palace. His Highness didn’t like sweet things, but they were always prepared. As for who they were meant for, no one knew, and many people envied them.

However, after His Highness ascended to the throne, he stopped asking for them. That was when His Highness gradually changed, became unhappy, and A Ruo felt distressed too.

But now, she unexpectedly heard this familiar order again. She couldn’t contain her joy and quickly replied, “Yes!”

…

Evening

Inside the Prince’s Chamber

Jian Mei, who had accidentally fallen asleep, slowly woke up. Since arriving in this world, he hadn’t slept well. It was either frequent nightmares or waking up several times at night. It was exhausting, but he couldn’t talk about this suffering to anyone. However, for some reason, during the day, when curled up in someone’s arms, he felt very relieved and then incredibly sleepy. He couldn’t resist falling asleep and waking up when it was already dark.

Jian Mei slowly sat up, hesitating as he looked around.

It was a very unfamiliar place, splendid and luxurious. Even the bed itself was particularly large, surrounded by many mechanical exhibits that he couldn’t understand at all, along with seemingly precious vases and gold ornaments. The entire room exuded a sense of both extravagance and aloofness.

Jian Mei looked down at himself; he was no longer in the form of a cat but had reverted to his original appearance.

“Back?”

As he murmured quietly, voices from outside could be heard. Nangong Xun said, “It’s indeed quite difficult to dispel this illusion, but you’re fortunate to have encountered me. Very few in this world can undo this illusionary magic, and I’m one of them. Speaking of which, His Majesty invited me to the palace because of my abilities. Rest assured, he should be awake now!”

As they spoke, they met face to face.

Nangong Xun stood beside Lu Xingwang, and as the three locked eyes, a brief silence fell over the room.

“Are you awake?” Nangong Xun hurried over. “Do you feel uncomfortable anywhere?”

Jian Mei gently shook his head. His gaze remained fixed on Lu Xingwang, his big round eyes staring at the familiar yet somewhat unfamiliar figure.

Nangong Xun, fearing something might be wrong, asked, “Do you know what your name is?”

Jian Mei replied, “My name is Jian Mei.”

Nangong Xun smiled, assuming that the person brought back by the Crown Prince should recognize him too. So, he pointed to the person behind him. “Then do you know who he is?”

Jian Mei lifted his head and locked eyes with Lu Xingwang. Many people looked at Lu Xingwang with complex expressions: some with admiration, some with worship, some with hostility, and some with scheming intentions. But Jian Mei’s gaze was moist, clean, reflecting Lu Xingwang’s figure. He guessed he hadn’t mistaken the person, but at this moment, he wasn’t sure. “I… I don’t know.”

“Then let’s get acquainted.” Lu Xingwang took a step forward, stopping in front of Jian Mei. The proud Crown Prince bent down before him. Gently, he said, “My name is Lu Xingwang.”

A glint of tears shimmered in Jian Mei’s eyes, his lips trembling slightly, but he didn’t speak.

“You can also call me Lu DaZhuang.” Under the child’s sudden shocked gaze, Lu Xingwang’s face was unusually gentle, his voice low and magnetic. “I’m delighted to meet you.”

Tears instantly rolled down Jian Mei’s face.

Lu Xingwang reached out, using his rough fingertips to wipe away the tears gently, and softly asked, “Have you been doing well lately?”

Translator’s Note-Guys don’t forget to support and comment your views(^-^)

Finally Here is the moment you all have been waiting for.Their first human-human interaction(⌒‐⌒). I hope you all are happy.