บท 256: To Put Power On Display

As Alister Hazenworth rose from his seat, a spotlight from above suddenly illuminated him, casting a bright, focused light over him. He took a moment to adjust to the attention, the corners of his mouth lifting in a small, confident smile.

With a nod to Director Aethel and the audience, he spoke, "A pleasure."

From across the table, a soft chuckle could be heard. Hiroshi leaned back in his chair, his arms crossed with a playful smirk.

"Don't stutter out there, Alister. We wouldn't want the city to think the White Comet Guild's MVP is nervous," he teased, giving Alister a wink.

Alister chuckled in return, taking the friendly jab. Before he could respond, Kaida leaned forward, her red hair catching the light as she grinned at him with her usual playful demeanor. "Break a leg out there!" she called, giving him a salute.

Ren, always the calm and collected one, adjusted his glasses, his gaze meeting Alister's with a look of approval and confidence.