After finishing their meal, everyone rose from the table.
While the others were still chatting and laughing, Dai Mubai discreetly went ahead and settled the bill.
By the time the others realized what he had done, he said with a smile, "This one's on me. Consider it an early toast to your victory from the very first battle in the Soul Master Tournament."
"Thank you, Brother Dai!" Shui Yue'er thanked him with a cheerful grin.
Shui Bing'er, however, looked a little embarrassed. "Sorry for making you spend so much, Brother Dai."
Huo Wu stood up and lifted her chin at Dai Mubai, a stubborn determination in her voice. "Just you wait. In the qualifiers, I'll show Heaven Dou Royal Academy what our Blazing Fire Academy is made of. As for that Tang San, I'd like to see whether he's really as strong as you say."
Dai Mubai smiled faintly and cupped his hands. "Then I wish you victory from your very first battle, Miss Huo Wu."
Huo Wu huffed, turned, and headed out the door. Huo Wushuang nodded to everyone and quickly followed.
Feng Xiaotian cupped his hands at Dai Mubai, then turned and chased after them, calling, "Little Sister Huo Wu, wait for me!" He looked determined to pester her to the bitter end.
Dai Mubai and the other three walked out of the restaurant. The afternoon sunshine was just right, and Heaven Dou City's streets were still packed with people, bustling with life.
Standing on the steps, Shui Bing'er looked at Dai Mubai and Ning Rongrong. "Brother Dai, Miss Rongrong, thank you both for today."
"You're too kind, Miss Bing'er. I didn't really do much to help." Dai Mubai smiled, his tone gentle.
"Goodbye, then." Shui Bing'er waved lightly, a blush rising to the tips of her ears,