Poised and Ready

The smooth, streamlined curves of the spacecraft-like vessel had no visible exhaust ports. It drifted across the sea and naturally descended slowly onto the pier.

The red carpet and honor guard had long since been prepared.

This visit could be considered semi-official, and given her unique status, she fully warranted such a reception.

As the vessel came to a stop, an opening appeared out of thin air on its smooth surface, then extended downward into a staircase that reached the red carpet.

Prince Su Shanqi and Chen Yao of Beiyang, who were in charge of receiving her this time, stepped forward side by side.

Having representatives from both sides handle the reception was clearly the result of mutual compromise. Both sides feared the other might deliberately sabotage things, so they reached an understanding quite smoothly this time.

As for why they had chosen elders to receive her, that too was the result of competition among the eligible suitors within both factions.

If one of the competitors had been the main host at a time like this, they would undoubtedly have held too great an inherent advantage. After the contenders nearly fought each other bloody over it, the final decision was simple: none of them would be allowed to do it!

Everyone would rely on their own abilities and compete fairly.

However, when Shirley, wearing a small top hat and dressed in formal attire, stepped out of the hatch and appeared before everyone present—

Even the two elder men responsible for receiving her were somewhat stunned by her charm.

She was even more breathtaking in person than in photographs.

She truly was a beauty capable of toppling kingdoms.

Even the two seniors could not help sighing in admiration. Among the onlookers beyond the security line, many more voices of amazement rose