Liwu and Weijun arrived at the grand hall as the very last members of the family. They were beyond late, as it was almost over. Weijun was practically growling at the security guards who checked them before they went inside. Just as they reached, they heard the speaker announce that only two presentations were left.
The chandeliers above flickered with smart light adjustments, shifting hues to comfort the eyes of the people inside. Drones hovered silently in the air, monitoring the outside environment and inside. Guards stood in every corner, keeping watch of all movements.
Liwu yawned, tugging at her sleeve, and discreetly popping another piece of licorice into her mouth. She chewed slowly, savoring the sweet bitterness, while her husband gasped at the sight of the holographic stage.
"Everyone is dressed so officially and expensively." He whispered to her.
She nodded. Everyone but them.
