Big Pao glanced at Michelle in astonishment; this brat seemed to know quite a lot. “I don’t know why we don’t have standard tutors; I’m just a student. Now, I admit I’m a little more handsome and better qualified than most, but I don’t have the authority to intrude on academy matters.”

Michelle looked down at her gadget and noted something down, prompting a change in Big Pao’s expression. He muttered into his own, “Sandmaster, this isn’t good. The rumors might be real; she might be the one the Ten Arbiters’ Council sent to inspect us. What? You don’t care? How? This kid will spill all our secrets! Yes, yes, I know we don’t have secrets, only problematic education policies. But it won’t be too good if your mantra of ‘only idiots study’ leaks out. Ugh, whatever. If you’re not concerned, then so be it. Don’t blame me when the Council cracks down on us.”

“How do we confirm that we have obtained the Rain Observatory’s...