Family

Night fell slowly, as though after the curtain call, drawing down its veil and gathering the last trace of sunset glow into its embrace. Yet Mittel Manor did not fall silent because of this. Instead, the moment the lights came on, it burst forth with vitality and enthusiasm even more dazzling than daylight.

Inside and outside the manor, everything had long been meticulously decorated. Strings of Magic Core lamps containing gentle light elements adorned the pavilions, towers, and ancient tree branches like stars, illuminating the entire estate as brightly as day, yet lending it an added haze of dreamlike enchantment.

Within the main hall, crystal chandeliers refracted rainbow-colored light over polished marble floors and the smiling faces of the guests.

In the square outside, a temporary banquet venue had been set up. Long tables draped in snow-white cloths were laden with fine wines and delicacies carefully prepared by the Empire's finest chefs. Their fragrance filled the air, making mouths water.

Voices buzzed everywhere, while laughter and cheerful conversation washed over every corner of the manor like a warm tide.

The grand celebration banquet was in full swing. Servants dressed in uniform formal attire moved expertly among the guests, offering wine and replacing plates. Everything proceeded in perfect order.

Tonight, without question, Elder Hai was the absolute focus of the feast.

He had changed into a brand-new ice-blue brocade robe. Though its style remained conservative, the faintly flowing runic gleam across the fabric revealed its extraordinary quality.

His usually stern, rigid face now resembled spring water after the ice and snow melted, brimming with irrepressible joy and a healthy glow.

He stood tall, as if a thousand-pound burden had been lifted from his shoulders. The subtle yet powerful aura belonging to a Dou Zong still caused those who approached him to