Inside the banquet hall, the laughter and conversation that had been rising and falling moments earlier seemed to have been abruptly cut off.
Everyone turned toward the entrance. Xiao Chen and the two girls stood beneath the brilliant lights, their dazzling radiance almost outshining the hall's ornate lamps.
Everyone present was splendidly dressed and distinguished in appearance, yet before Xiao Chen, Gu Yue, and Na'er, all that splendor lost its luster.
Gu Yue wore a pure white gown, her long hair falling smoothly over her shoulders. Cool and clear as jade, she resembled a fairy beneath the moon. Even standing motionless, her graceful figure carried an imposing presence.
Na'er wore a pale pink, full-skirted dress, its tiny rhinestones glittering beneath the lights. Her features were lively and expressive, her sparkling eyes carrying a touch of spirited charm, like a little princess who had stepped out of a fairy-tale painting.
But the one who drew the most attention was undoubtedly Xiao Chen.
His fitted, deep purple suit set off a figure as straight and tall as a pine, with crisp shoulder lines and black trousers falling straight down, outlining his proportions just right.
Now that he was formally dressed, the gloominess hidden in his bones was slightly subdued by his refined, distinguished appearance.
Cold without being fierce, handsome without being soft-once people's eyes fell on him, they could hardly look away.
Many of the Shrek students present, along with members of the Star Luo Empire's delegation, involuntarily held their breath. Scattered murmurs of admiration quietly spread through the crowd.
On the raised platform, Sima Lanxiao's gaze fell on the three at the entrance, and he immediately broke into a warm smile. Holding a voice-amplifying soul device, he spoke clearly, his voice carrying throughout the banquet hall:
"It seems our awards tonight