Rehearsal for the anniversary gala.

Yulia arrived at the venue half an hour ahead of schedule, as agreed.

The anniversary celebration at Horizia University had created quite a stir across various sectors. Politicians, businessmen, cultural figures—anyone with a bit of influence was sure to attend, as long as they were invited. Rather than an anniversary celebration, it felt more like a gathering of elites from all walks of life.

“Miss Sanders, this ...