Eli and Jin arrived at their apartment just before 8 PM. The evening light was dimming, and the air outside carried the scent of fried noodles and motor oil—Dragon City's strange, familiar perfume. The ride home had been quiet, Jin leaning into the wind on the back of Eli's scooter, lost in thought.
Inside, Jin went straight for the fridge, hunting for leftover dumplings. Eli, still carrying the weight of Jin's earlier curiosity about school, moved toward the couch, pulled out his phone, and started searching.
He typed: Top Schools in Dragon City.
A few taps later, a curated list began to form on the screen, each school bearing its own distinct identity and reputation, many tied to the very districts they served.
1. Polaris Academy
A cutting-edge private institution famous for its technology focused curriculum, elite internships, and The campus itself is a statement of power and wealth its an architectural marvel overlooking the ocean, equipped with the latest in smart classrooms, AI-powered learning hubs, and luxurious student lounges. Its sports and wellness facilities rival those of Olympic training centers, and its art and design spaces foster creativity at an international level. Admission is ultra competitive and reserved for the elite. The application process is hard and thorough, attracting the Elite and powerful families. The designer uniforms, tailored by famous fashion designers, reflect the school's ethos of refinement and excellence. Most students come from top families, ensuring an environment rich with ambition, influence, and opportunity.
Tuition: 1,200,000 yuan /per year for one child
"Definitely out of our league," Eli muttered.
2. Dragon Spire High School –
One of the oldest school in the city. An old-money prep school built on prestige, traditions, and centuries-old political connections. Most elite families are attracted by the school. Its gothic architecture looks more like a castle than a school. Known for producing politicians, judges, and media moguls.
Tuition: 900,000 yuan /per year for one child
Eli scoffed. "Expensive and sounds like a place full of snobby people."
3. Halin Tech School – Tenstone District (Lower Middle Class)
Focused on vocational education: mechanics, electronics, and industrial trades. Affordable and hands-on, but underfunded. Facilities are rough, but passionate teachers do what they can.
"If he wanted something practical…"
Tuition: 75,000 yuan /per year for one child
4. Red Pine High—some strong programs
While certain academic departments shine, offering specialized courses that rival more elite institutions, the school struggles with overcrowded classrooms and underfunded resources, leading to frustrated faculty and uneven student experiences. Corruption lurks in the administration, with funding mysteriously vanishing and power dynamics influencing everything from scholarships to club leadership.
Yet, despite its flaws, Redpine high has carved out a reputation for its art scene. The drama club, gritty and unapologetic, produces raw, emotionally charged performances that pull no punches, often tackling controversial themes ignored by more polished institutions. The music program, often dismissed as an afterthought, has unexpectedly produced some of the city's most promising underground artists, with alumni going on to shake up indie and classical scenes alike.
Tuition: 56,000 yuan /per year for one child
5. Greatheight private High
is the kind of place that finds a balance between tradition and practicality—a stable, well-rounded institution where students get a solid education without the weight of elite expectations. It's not the most prestigious or high-tech, but it has dedicated teachers, strong community ties, and a respectable lineup of extracurriculars that make it a great choice for students looking for a steady, supportive learning environment. And decent extracurriculars. Not perfect, but stable. It's where Mian goes—where the science class apparently explodes things for fun.
Tuition: 175,000 yuan /per year for one child
"Hmm..." Eli glanced toward Jin's room.
6. Junren Military School –
stands as a beacon of structure, discipline, and achievement—an institution crafted for families who value order, excellence, and personal integrity. At junren, students adhere to a strict code of conduct that places a strong emphasis on discipline and respect. Their uniforms are always pristine, symbolizing not just school pride but also a deep commitment to tradition and unity. Daily fitness drills keep students in top physical shape, reinforcing the idea that a strong body goes hand in hand with a strong mind. Whether it's early morning endurance training or structured sports programs, physical discipline is held in just as high regard as academic success. On the academic front, Junren maintains exceptionally high standards. The courses are challenging, expectations are clear, and healthy competition is encouraged. Students are motivated to excel in every subject, fostering sharp analytical skills and a tireless work ethic. This school is more than just a place for learning; it's about shaping leaders who thrive under pressure, embrace structure, and step into the world ready to earn respect and achieve success.
Tuition: 60,000 yuan /per year for one child
7. St. Caelin's High –
A religious private school with ivy-covered walls and a reputation for academic excellence and moral strictness. Scholarships are available but rare.
Tuition: 200,000 yuan /per year for one child
8. Dujiang Magnet School for the Arts –
For creative students—painters, writers, musicians. Acceptance based on portfolios and auditions. Uniforms are optional, and walls are covered in murals. Very different vibe.
Tuition: 275,000 yuan /per year for one child
9. Black Hollow Technical Institute (BHTI) –
is a cutting-edge institution built for the future. With a strong emphasis on engineering, software development, and cyber-security, it stands as a launchpad for students eager to enter the world of tech innovation. While it may lack the polish of more traditional elite schools, it thrives on its direct industry connections, ensuring that students gain practical experience alongside their studies.
GreatHeight has deep ties to local startups, offering students access to internship programs, mentorships, and real-world projects that push them beyond textbook learning. The faculty consists of industry veterans and tech pioneers, ensuring that lessons stay relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Tuition: 465,000 yuan /per year for one child
10. Henslin Charter School –A non-profit charter trying to save what the public system has abandoned. Short-staffed . Tough environment. But for some kids, it's the only hope.
Eli sat back, staring at the list, weighing each one. Some were out of reach. Others were too rigid. A few, maybe—just maybe—could be something real.
Tuition: free as its ran by charity
He bookmarked three names:
Shuangshi Public High
Dujiang Magnet School
Black Hollow Technical
Each had its own risks and rewards. But maybe—just maybe—one could be right for Jin.
Just then, Jin walked into the living room, munching on a cold dumpling.
"What're you looking at?" he asked, mouth half-full.
Eli turned the screen toward him."Options."
Jin leaned in. His eyes scanned the names, pausing at one in particular.Then he said quietly,"I wanna go to the one Mian goes to."
Eli raised an eyebrow, but didn't question it."Greatheight, huh? Alright. Let's see what we can do."