"Everyone!"

In the bustling banquet hall, a man’s voice suddenly cut through the chatter. Guests still sipping wine or deep in lively talks froze, turning toward the head table.

—Ouyang Long stood up, mic in hand.

"Thank you all for honoring me today. As host, I’ll keep it short—let’s drink to joy!"

He raised his glass and downed it.

"To us!"

Cheers rose below. Every guest lifted their glass, draining it in one gulp.

The sight of men and women moving as one was breathtaking. Yet at the head table, the group simply smiled at each other, unmoved.

"Now," Ouyang Long continued, "today’s my birthday. I’m truly grateful you traveled far to Shanyuan City for the Ouyang Clan’s domain. To show my thanks, I’ve prepared small gifts. Open the ribbon-tied boxes before you—but keep the contents secret, okay~~"

Guests untied their boxes.

"Oh…"

"What generosity."

"Hah…"

Gasps, delight, and excitement filled the air—but every face beamed.

"Next, we have a truly distinguished guest at the Ouyang Clan tonight. To show respect, please welcome with applause… Dean Zokilia of Atlantis Academy!"

A louder stir erupted. Zokilia’s name was world-famous. Atlantis trained most renowned sorcerers globally. Its elusive dean appearing here as a guest stunned everyone!

"Oh dear, Ouyang Long, you’re too kind," Zokilia said, taking the mic with an exasperated sigh and rolling his eyes. His playful tone drew laughter.

"Alright, as Ouyang Long requested, a few words." He cleared his throat lightly, eyes narrowing. "First—happy birthday, Ouyang Long. That’s tonight’s highlight."

Ouyang Long nodded, smiling.

"Second, I’m here not just to congratulate him, but for another reason."

"......."

Silent until now, Ouyang Feng suddenly reacted. Her dull eyes blazed with life as she stared at Zokilia, trembling with excitement.

"Actually, I attended this year’s Magic Exchange Tournament as a spectator. There, I found an Ouyang Clan girl whose charm captivated me. So, I’ll take her to Atlantis as my personal apprentice to study Magic."

The words exploded like a bomb. The hall erupted in chaos.

"I know you’re curious. No hiding it—let me reveal her. Come up, Ouyang…"

Ouyang Feng shot up, heart pounding. Everyone assumed she was the chosen one.

"Shi…"

But heaven to hell takes an instant. Her smile froze. Her body locked stiff.

Silence smothered the hall. All but Zokilia wiped their smiles away—this moment was painfully awkward.

"Why…"

Ouyang Feng finally whispered, glaring at the grinning man.

"Why? Simple. Miss Ouyang Shi’s talent ranks among the strongest I’ve ever seen. Seeing such potential, I had to act."

"Why is it always Ouyang Shi, Ouyang Shi, Ouyang Shi? Can’t you see me? I’m strong too! I lose to no one!"

"Hmm…" Zokilia sighed, watching her unravel. "Girl, understand this. I’ve seen your Magic—it’s powerful."

"Then why wasn’t I chosen? What does that clueless ice girl have that I lack?!"

"Ah, your white flames are unmatched in their way. But the world isn’t ruled by Magic alone. True strength needs a humble heart—no pride, no envy, just focus. In that, you fall far short of Miss Ouyang Shi."

His words struck like a hammer, shattering her fragile heart.

"It can’t be… How could that bitch be chosen? It should be me! I should be the center of attention…"

Hugging her shaking body, Ouyang Feng sobbed, large tears dripping onto the table.

"......."

Ouyang Long glanced at his wife. Ouyang Lijia stood, guiding her distraught daughter away.

"Well, that’s settled. But where’s Miss Ouyang Shi? Troubling."

Zokilia scanned the crowd, scratching his head—she was nowhere.

"No worry. My daughter’s on her way. You’ll meet her soon, Mr. Zokilia."

Ouyang Long interjected smoothly—likely he’d sent for her after hearing her name.

"Yes, Miss Ouyang Shi will be my student. She may shine globally someday. But the future’s uncertain—I’ll await it eagerly."

Zokilia sat down.

The mood turned stiff. Ouyang Feng’s outburst left guests speechless.

"Heh, we’re honored Mr. Zokilia favors my daughter. The future’s unknown—let’s cherish now."

Ouyang Long’s words revived the atmosphere. Guests lined up to toast Zokilia. Yet this bespectacled man stayed sober, no matter how much he drank…

"Ah, I wish I could sneak in for a drink…"

"You and me both. Of all days, I’m on duty. Rotten luck!"

At the Ouyang Clan’s main gate, two guards leaned against the door, relaxed. Their vigilance had vanished—they thought no trouble would come today.

—Ironically, that’s exactly when it struck…