As the night deepened, the celebration became even more animated. Guests clinked glasses with exuberance, their laughter blending with the lively melody of the musicians. Servants weaved through the crowd, balancing trays of glittering drinks and mouthwatering pastries, while the air seemed to hum with unrestrained joy. Each toast, each smile, added to the energy of the room, creating an atmosphere that felt almost magical.

Speed leaned dramatically against the banquet table, raising her glass with a flourish. "To Shin! The future of magic, the kid who’s going to make us all look boring in comparison, and the only one brave enough to eat those strange green appetizers!"

Lady let out a soft sigh, but even she raised her glass with a faint smile. "To Shin. May he make good choices at the Academy—and avoid Speed’s advice whenever possible."

I chuckled, lifting my own glass. "To Speed… may she find a new topic of conversation before the Academy bans her from campus."

The hall burst into laughter, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. The weight of the past weeks lifted, replaced by a sense of belonging and triumph.

As the night wore on, the crowd began to thin, but the warmth of the celebration lingered. Mama pulled me into a tight embrace, her voice soft but firm. "No matter where you go, Shin, remember that we’re always with you."

Papa rested a hand on my shoulder, his expression as unreadable as ever. "You’ve earned this," he said simply, but his words carried a weight that made my chest tighten.

Speed, never one to let the mood stay too serious for long, raised her glass again, her eyes sparkling. "And to me, for being the best hype-woman in history!"

The room erupted once more, and for the first time, I felt completely at ease. The Tournament of Five had been intense, but tonight—surrounded by family and friends—it all felt worth it. As I gazed at the faces around me, I knew that whatever challenges awaited me at the Academy, I wouldn’t face them alone.