On the sixth day, Ao Bing received a message from the Dragon Palace, stating that there were important matters that required his immediate attention. Upon seeing the letter delivered by the Messenger, Ao Bing's expression grew serious.
"What happened?" Nezha asked with concern.
Ao Bing shook his head. "There are some internal disagreements within the Dragon Tribe. My father needs me to return immediately to help resolve them."
Nezha felt a tightness in his chest. "So you have to leave early?"
After a moment of hesitation, Ao Bing shook his head again. "No, I promised you that I would stay for seven days. I've already replied to the Messenger, saying I would return the day after tomorrow."
This response relieved Nezha, but he also felt a twinge of guilt. "If it's something important, you should go back right away. Don't delay the Dragon Tribe's affairs because of me."
Ao Bing looked at Nezha with unwavering determination in his eyes. "I will keep my promises. And for me, the time spent with you is equally important."
Nezha was so moved that he couldn't find the words, instead embracing Ao Bing tightly to express his gratitude and affection.
However, after receiving the letter, Ao Bing became noticeably preoccupied, often lost in thought. Nezha could sense Ao Bing's anxiety and unease and tried various ways to help him relax, but nothing seemed to work.
After dinner, they returned to their dormitory, where Ao Bing began packing his belongings in preparation for his departure the day after tomorrow. Watching Ao Bing carefully organize his things stirred an indescribable sadness within Nezha. The books, stationery, and clothes were all remnants of Ao Bing's life, testifying to their days spent together. Now, these traces were about to be erased, leaving behind an empty bed and desk as reminders that someone was about to leave.
"Ao Bing," Nezha suddenly spoke up, "what are your plans after you return to the Dragon Palace?"
Ao Bing paused in his packing and thought for a moment. "First, I need to complete the Inheritance Ceremony and officially become the heir of the Dragon Tribe. Then I'll assist my father in handling Dragon Tribe affairs, especially concerning our interactions and negotiations with the Human World."
"It sounds busy," Nezha said softly, "will you still have time to play the piano? Will you still read those literary works?"
Ao Bing smiled slightly. "I will, although it may not be as frequent as now, but I won’t give up on these hobbies. They are an indispensable part of my life, allowing me to maintain inner peace and beauty amidst the busyness."
Nezha nodded, feeling relieved to discover that Ao Bing did not intend to completely abandon his passions. This meant that despite being in the Dragon Palace and bearing responsibilities, Ao Bing would still retain that love for music and literature, the very essence of himself that Nezha deeply cherished.
"And you?" Ao Bing countered, "how is your dream of becoming a Football Coach progressing?"
Nezha excitedly shared his progress. "I have signed up for the Beginner Coach Training Course, which starts next month. After completing the course, if I pass the exam, I will receive a Junior Coach certificate. Then, I plan to organize a small football training class at school to gain some practical teaching experience."
Ao Bing listened intently, nodding and asking questions from time to time, showing his support and encouragement for Nezha's plans. His attitude filled Nezha with a strong sense of support and understanding; this feeling was so beautiful yet felt particularly precious due to the impending separation.
After finishing packing, it was already late at night. Ao Bing had completed his evening routine and sat on the edge of the bed, gazing thoughtfully out at the night sky.
"What are you thinking about?" Nezha asked softly as he sat beside Ao Bing.
Ao Bing turned his head, a hint of worry in his eyes. "I’m thinking about whether I will become cold and restrained again after returning to the Dragon Palace, losing the warmth and vitality that this time in the human world has given me."
Nezha took Ao Bing's hand. "You won’t, Ao Bing. You have already changed; no matter where you are, those experiences and feelings will become a part of you, influencing your thoughts and actions."
Ao Bing nodded, his worries slightly easing. "I hope so. This time has been too important for me; I don’t want to go back to that life bound by rules and obligations."
"You can bring some changes back," Nezha encouraged. "Use the new ideas and concepts you've learned to change the outdated traditions and rules of the Dragon Tribe. Perhaps in the future, the Dragon Tribe can be more open, more free, and... happier."
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