Reunion and Declaration of War

Wanlai Zhengming did not sit down right away.

She stood at the end of the long table, gave an elegant bow, then lightly brought her hands together in the air as if performing a magic trick.

Though there had clearly been nothing there a moment ago, in the next instant, her exquisitely decorated, highly personalized violin was resting steadily in her hands.

"Then," she said, lightly setting the bow against the strings and tilting her chin slightly. Her expression instantly became enraptured and focused, as though she were already standing in a magnificent concert hall. "Allow me to begin by offering a piece for this night of victory. May the melody be like the wind, accompanying you all on your journey."

Her posture was impeccable, beyond reproach.

Then she pressed an extremely inconspicuous button on the violin body.

A melodious violin piece of superb audio quality—yet clearly prerecorded—played from within that apparent instrument, which was actually a complex device, flowing through the courtyard.

The others present seemed long accustomed to this scene. Some even listened quietly with an amused "here we go again" look in their eyes, enjoying this unusual "performance."

Mikki Rocket lowered her head, her shoulders trembling slightly as she struggled not to laugh.

Kyoushou, meanwhile, watched Wanlai Zhengming with sparkling eyes, swaying her head lightly along with the rhythm in wholehearted support.

When the piece ended, Wanlai Zhengming lowered her violin and gave another elegant bow.

"Thank you, everyone." She nodded in satisfaction, then opened the ice bucket and took out several slender bottles that looked remarkably like champagne.

With practiced movements, she popped the corks and poured the golden liquid, fizzing with delicate bubbles, into the glasses of those nearby.

"Non-alcoholic sparkling apple juice. For celebration, and for clear-headed training tomorrow."

As the host, Kitasan Black