That night, Ouyang Qianxue returned to the dormitory, his heart restless. He slapped his legs against the bed in frustration.

"How's it going? Miss me after a whole day apart?" Qian Wang pushed open the door and hopped over to his side.

"You're back," Ouyang Qianxue replied weakly.

"This isn't like you. You seem off today. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Why'd you skip class?"

"I reported to my aunt about you. She said to be more confident—and watch out for Bai Yuxuan." Ouyang Qianxue shuddered slightly at her words.

"Is Bai Yuxuan really that scary?"

"Seriously? Xijiang City is White Clan's turf now. Wait—you didn't cross him, did you?"

"No way."

"Really? You've been absent-minded since I walked in."

"Just a cold. Headache."

Ouyang Qianxue couldn't tell her. Qian Wang was the wealthy lady's eyes and ears. He doubted she'd risk offending the White Clan for him. If she knew, she might scrap the campus idol plan. His mother's medical bills and sister's tuition would vanish.

"Rest up then." Qian Wang shrugged it off. After studying awhile, lights-out came.

Both lay in bed. Qian Wang stared at Qianxue opposite her, recalling her aunt's words.

"Hey, Qianxue."

"Hmm?"

"Isn't it foolish to chase dreams without talent or resolve?"

"I've never lived it, but those who fight for dreams—even if they fail—seem beautiful to me. Better than quitters. At least they tried. No regrets."

"I see."

"What's wrong? Why ask that?"

"Nothing. Just tired. Sleep." Qian Wang turned away.

"If only I'd met you sooner," she whispered to his back.

Next day, Ouyang Qianxue arrived early at the Go Club after school. He begged the president to teach him.

"Ouyang volunteering for the Clear Water Cup? I'm thrilled! Our club almost had no one."

"Senior, you flatter us. Everyone's strong—including you."

"But it's an amateur open. I hold a professional rank."

"I see."

"Bai Yuxuan's representing Cherry Blossom Academy too. Rare for him." The Hanfu-clad girl placed a stone.

"Is he strong?"

"His personal skill? Unknown. But his grandfather's a Go legend—even beyond being Xijiang's richest. His grandson can't be weak."

"I see." Ouyang Qianxue's face tightened.

"Ulterior motives for joining?" The girl grinned mischievously.

"No! Just teach me properly!"

A week later, the Clear Water Cup began. Hundreds gathered—many high-ranked amateurs.

"Don't tense up. You nearly beat a pro like me. After my training, you're stronger. Play your best. Victory's easy." She patted his shoulder.

"Thanks, senior."

"The Clear Water Cup Amateur Go Open begins now. Players, proceed!"

Group stages started—A to D groups. Ouyang Qianxue headed to Group D. Then he saw the face he dreaded most.

Bai Yuxuan strolled over, smiling. "Fancy meeting you here. Group D? Pity. Best saved for last. Survive until we meet." He sauntered toward Group C.

Ouyang Qianxue took a breath and entered his arena.

Outside, two Go Club classmates watched the livestream anxiously.

"President, can Ouyang win? The prize drew all top amateurs."

"Hmph. Underestimating him again? He's a genius. Last practice, I felt pressure like during my pro exam. Know what that means?"

"He could challenge pros." The girls gaped. Pros and amateurs were worlds apart.

Inside, Ouyang Qianxue battled fiercely, remembering her advice: "Your opening and endgame shine. But mid-game rhythm cost you our first match. This week fixed that."

His moves grew relentless, crushing the opponent's defense. A clean win earned applause from commentators.

In Group C, commentators fell silent. Bai Yuxuan's brutal style annihilated his rival's stones. The opponent crumbled, resigning in twenty minutes.

"Rusty after time off. But amateurs? Like slaughtering pigs." Bai Yuxuan stretched his wrist and headed to rest.