Chapter Ten: The Big Trade (1)

When the two returned to the banquet hall arm in arm, most of the guests had already arrived, and almost every man's face showed a decidedly amorous expression at the sight of Katya arm in arm with a young man. Even Old Chen, the solemn Internal Affairs Manager, couldn't help but frown at the scene, but given the circumstances, as the host, Duke Tez couldn't say much and simply motioned for them to enter.

Seeing several people beside Duke Tez, the perceptive Katya courteously greeted them and then gracefully departed, leaving the others to enter the lounge next to the banquet hall without much ado. This lounge was specially prepared for guests needing to discuss important matters undisturbed, allowing for private conversations.