"Still, there was hope in the end, wasn't there?" Ang's voice sounded beside Hogan's ear, carrying a note of resolve.
As soon as he finished speaking, Hogan froze for a moment. His eyes brightened slightly, as though he had heard some deeper meaning in Ang's words.
"May you still hold on to that thought after you've gone through it." Hogan's tone softened unconsciously.
Ang smiled, raised his glass, and lightly clinked it against Hogan's. "Haha, I don't have many strengths, but I am fairly optimistic. When the sky falls, the tall ones will hold it up. I refuse to believe the Empire would be willing to give up such an enticing piece of cake."
Hogan looked at him, and a subtle glint flashed through his eyes, as though Ang's optimism had moved him.
The two met each other's eyes for a moment before turning the conversation to other matters.
After chatting for a few more moments, Hogan suddenly turned and walked toward Quintina.
Watching him, Ang could not help feeling a complicated emotion rise within him. Hogan was clearly a true nobleman, impeccable in both bearing and manners.
"Beautiful lady, may I have the honor of a dance?" Hogan asked gracefully, his voice full of sincerity and charm.
Quintina paused, her gaze sweeping over Ang. She was clearly considering whether to accept the invitation.
In the end, she gritted her teeth and smiled, as though she had made up her mind. She nodded at Ang, then unhesitatingly extended her hand and accepted Hogan's invitation.
As Ang watched the two of them walk toward the dance floor, a strange feeling rose in his heart.
Hogan danced with the elegance of a true master, while Quintina seemed born to be his partner. They moved in perfect harmony, their steps smooth and fluid,