As time passed, the banquet officially began.
After listening to the host's uninspired opening remarks, Chen Hao finally realized that this so-called business summit was sponsored entirely by the Dihao Group. His opinion of the banquet immediately dropped considerably.
But once the host finished announcing the guests in attendance, Chen Hao had to admire the Dihao Group's ability to draw a crowd.
Besides the mayor of Zhonghai City, most of the mid- and senior-level officials from its various districts were present. It could certainly be called a major gathering of the city's political and business circles.
Another ten minutes or so passed before several hotel staff carefully wheeled an expensive-looking piano onto the stage. A smartly dressed pianist then stepped up.
As the pianist took the stage, the host announced excitedly, "Next comes the dancing portion of our banquet. Please give a warm round of applause to our pianist, Mr. Athos!"
The moment the host announced his name, everyone's attention turned to the stage.
"What? Athos? Isn't he that famous international pianist from America?"
"It should be him. I hear Athos is incredible. He used to perform at presidential banquets. Even major celebrities can't always book him."
"The Dihao Group really spared no expense. They even brought Athos here."
"His appearance fee might be steep, but it's pocket change to the Dihao Group. Don't make such a fuss."
Amid enthusiastic applause, Mr. Athos from America walked to the front of the stage with a smile and gave everyone a deep bow, displaying his Western gentlemanly manners.
Once he sat down, the audience obligingly fell silent. Even the lights throughout the hall went dark, leaving the spotlight focused on Athos.
As Athos's lilting piano music began, the lights in the banquet hall slowly shifted as though following the melody. Standing there,