Naturally, Ernest and the other man would not refuse Xiao Ran's invitation. There was no possibility of refusing, nor would they offend Xiao Ran over such a trivial matter. As for why he had included the four members of Valkyrie Squad, Xiao Ran simply wanted to learn more about the team—especially the girl named Mei Yun. That girl gave Xiao Ran a very strange feeling, an abnormal one. Of course, it was not Xiao Ran who was abnormal; Mei Yun herself seemed somewhat abnormal.
That Unified Government official was practically desperate to attend Xiao Ran's private banquet. To him, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If Xiao Ran took a liking to him, he would gain a powerful patron within the Unified Government and would no longer have to remain on this godforsaken border planet. Perhaps he might even use this chance to transfer to a livelier, more prosperous, and safer planet.
Basak was inwardly thrilled, while Cruze remained calm and indifferent. Yet the two of them shared exactly the same thought: they would attend the welcome reception being held here that evening.
Once Ernest and the other man agreed, the Valkyrie Captain behind them, Yao Bacania, approached with a delighted smile. After greeting both Sheryl and Xiao Ran, she suppressed her excitement and said to Sheryl, "Miss Sheryl, we're so happy that you accepted our invitation to come to Laguna Planet. We've been your fans for a long time. Seeing you today truly, truly makes us so happy."
Sheryl smiled faintly at Yao Bacania's words. She lightly flicked back her long hair and removed her sunglasses, revealing the beautiful face that had not changed at all over the years. Smiling, she nodded at Yao Bacania. "I'm also very happy to meet all of you. You're quite famous now as well.