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墨書 Inktalez
The host concluded the opening speech and began to introduce the important guests on stage one by one. When it came to Andaro, the plump man couldn't contain his excitement and stood up eagerly. Not only that, but he also waved his hands enthusiastically, a self-satisfied grin plastered across his face, as if this event were designed solely for him. His exaggerated gestures were somewhat ridiculous, yet he paid no mind to the surrounding gazes, basking in the attention with his shiny face, as if flaunting his status in Shadow City.
A few suppressed chuckles arose from the audience, but Andaro seemed oblivious. He even leaned slightly forward to bow to the audience, exuding an air of self-importance as if he wanted to emphasize his indispensable significance before everyone.
Next, the host introduced Shen Liya of the Silver Fox Sect. The queen of the underworld was as cold and alluring as ever; she merely nodded slightly and waved her hand with a hint of reserve, maintaining a noble and composed smile that made her seem unapproachable. Her presence commanded respect, and even a simple gesture from her was enough to deter any underestimation. Her understated confidence stood in stark contrast to Andaro's flamboyance, making her appear mysterious and impossible to ignore.
Following that was the introduction of He Jianye, the Secretary-General of the city government. He simply raised his hand slightly, his expression devoid of emotion, embodying his usual seriousness and sternness. He Jianye's actions were simple yet appropriate, creating a sharp contrast with the other guests around him; there were no unnecessary smiles or signs of unease, as if he had long grown accustomed to such occasions but deemed it beneath him to display excessive enthusiasm. The guests below could only respond with polite applause, daring not to utter more than necessary.
The host then stepped forward again, warmly inviting the guests on stage to give brief speeches. However, these prominent figures exchanged glances and seemed reluctant to waste time in such a setting. Shen Liya was the first to shake her head slightly in polite refusal; He Jianye was even more direct, not bothering to rise from his seat but merely casting a cold glance at the host, clearly uninterested in speaking.
Seeing that both dignitaries had declined, Andaro was not about to let this opportunity for attention slip away. He turned around quickly, snatched the microphone from the host's hand, cleared his throat, and with a smile addressed the guests below: "Since my esteemed elders have given me this chance, I won't hold back." He struck a triumphant pose as if the stage belonged solely to him at that moment.
He then began rambling on about his significant contributions in Wasteland City Industrial Zone and how he had dedicated himself to promoting cooperation among various parties, repeatedly emphasizing his position and role within the industry as if he could not stop talking. His voice was deep and self-satisfied, filled with self-adoration as if every word reminded everyone present just how "indispensable" he was.
Anna stood among the crowd, observing with a cold smile playing on her lips. She noticed many guests appearing somewhat impatient, whispering among themselves and clearly not intending to take Andaro's speech seriously. Anna's lips curled slightly upward as she thought: A man like this truly embodies narcissism to its fullest extent.
Finally concluding his lengthy monologue, Andaro remained brimming with pride and self-importance; however, the guests below had long since grown weary. As soon as he finished speaking, enthusiastic applause erupted throughout the room. This applause was clearly not genuine approval but rather an eager signal to end his drawn-out speech. Guests exchanged knowing glances and raised their glasses as if ready for everything to start anew.
The host seized upon this subtle shift in atmosphere and cheerfully announced: "Well then, everyone, let us officially commence tonight's celebration banquet!" He raised the microphone enthusiastically, guiding everyone's spirits. As his voice rang out, guests lifted their glasses of Champagne; the atmosphere became lively once more with laughter and clinking glasses. The sparkling Champagne glimmered under the crystal chandeliers as everyone raised their cups high before downing them in one go.
He Jianye and Shen Liya remained on stage, still embodying their aloofness and low profile. He Jianye maintained a stoic expression, nodding slightly before promptly turning away from the stage; Shen Liya followed suit with meticulous elegance that radiated cold beauty and confidence. The two exchanged silent glances but spoke not a word—clearly uninterested in this social gathering.
Seeing this from up on stage, Andaro quickly realized their intentions. He hastily set down his glass of Champagne and hurried after them with an ingratiating smile plastered on his face like a loyal follower trailing behind He Jianye and Shen Liya. His bulky frame appeared somewhat clumsy yet moved swiftly as he refused to miss any opportunity to curry favor or flatter these two individuals.
Anna stood among the crowd, coldly observing the scene before her, a hint of mocking amusement curling at the corners of her mouth. Andaro's sycophantic demeanor struck her as particularly ridiculous; a self-important individual who ultimately lived like a shadow, desperately chasing after power.
Pox quietly watched Anna's expression, noticing that her gaze never strayed from Andaro, her eyes seemingly filled with an unusual focus. After hesitating for a moment, he finally mustered the courage to speak softly, "Um... Miss, I apologize for being presumptuous, but you seem quite interested in Uncle Andaro?"
Upon hearing the term "uncle," Anna raised an eyebrow, contemplating the revelation that Pox and Andaro were actually acquainted. She smiled and teased lightly, "Haha, with him looking like that, fat as a bear, who could possibly overlook him?" Her tone carried a playful jest, yet her gaze remained deep and did not entirely conceal her calm scrutiny of Andaro.
Pox chuckled at her words, feeling somewhat relaxed. Lowering his voice, he revealed, "Actually... my father often calls him 'Fat Pig' in private." He stole a glance at Anna, seemingly worried that such remarks might offend her, yet he couldn't help but continue, "But he’s involved in too many affairs in the city; in occasions like this, everyone still has to give him some face."
Anna smiled slightly and casually remarked, "So... you know him then?" Her tone was gentle, as if this were merely idle chatter at a banquet, while in reality, she was already formulating a plan in her mind.
Pox nodded proudly and cautiously replied, "I suppose so. I've seen him a few times at family gatherings. Although he always gets red-faced from drinking and speaks unclearly, I can barely say we know each other."
On the surface, Anna merely smiled and nodded; however, she was already calculating in her mind. This unwitting young man had inadvertently revealed valuable information. Her gaze swept over Pox's face while maintaining a light smile, though her eyes now held a touch more caution.
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