Chapter 240: The Director's Speech

Chapter 240: The Director's Speech

Fang Xiu furrowed his brow, sensing the inevitable unraveling of his plans. He had a gut feeling something would go wrong, and now it had.

Fang Moli was a key piece in his strategy because Yan Changshou and his group were most wary of the Xuanyuan Sword. Without his presence, it was clear the enemy would shift their tactics.

This creeping loss of control didn't sit well with Fang Xiu. It only meant one thing: he'd likely have to die once again.

Not long after, the Director made his entrance, with Xiao Zhenhua trailing close behind.

Xiao Zhenhua's expression was severe, his usual reserved demeanor intact as he shadowed the Director. His sharp eyes darted around, vigilantly scanning for any sign of threat.

Most of the crowd, except for the higher-ups, were clueless about who Xiao Zhenhua was. Unlike the five captains, he didn't command much public attention, but his strength was on par with theirs.

This made sense—just like in movies where all eyes are on the leading stars, the bodyguards fade into the background, unnoticed.

Xiao Zhenhua preferred it that way, operating under the radar. Only those who were truly in the know understood just how formidable he was.

"Now, let's welcome the Director to give his address," the host announced. The Director walked steadily to the podium, his gaze sweeping across the hall filled with hundreds of elite psychics from across the nation.

His eyes settled on the four captains seated on the stage, noting the empty chair meant for Fang Moli.

The Director's frown deepened for a moment, but he quickly masked his irritation and began speaking into the microphone, his voice commanding and serious, "Ladies and gentlemen, you represent the finest of the Investigation Bureau, the backbone of our nation's defense. On behalf of headquarters, I extend my warmest welcome. I'll keep this brief and focus on three key points. First, heighten your vigilance. The Specter situation is escalating across the country, and we must abandon any notions of complacency or overconfidence—"

BANG!

Before the Director could finish, the sharp crack of shattering glass echoed through the hall.

For a split second, everyone braced for an attack. Soldiers in the room instantly drew their weapons, the sound of guns cocking filling the air.

But then, a gleaming sword light flashed into the hall.

A man with a calm expression and sharp eyebrows made his entrance.

Dressed in flowing white robes, he stood atop a dark golden sword, a matching sword box strapped to his back.

Recognizing him, the soldiers eased up, lowering their guns, but the Director's face remained stern.

"Apologies for being so late," the young man in white said coolly, hovering above the crowd on his flying sword.

Luo Qingxin might look like an ice queen, but deep down, she had a flair for the dramatic. Naming her team "Illusionary Life"? That's the kind of thing only a college student could come up with—too pretentious for anyone else.

Xiong Tianguang was a gaming nerd, convinced that women were just distractions in the gaming world.

Li Xiaoru was blunt, loud, and had just enough education to be annoying.

Fang Moli was cold and pretentious, always acting like he was above everyone else, whether or not he actually was.

And then there was Yan Changshou—well, there wasn't much more to say about him since he wasn't even human.

Despite how strange they all were, their quirks didn't matter as long as the plan stayed on track.

After what felt like an eternity, the Director's speech was finally winding down.

"Now, as many of you are aware, a recent Grade-S Specter event occurred in Greenvine City..."

Xiao Chuxia leaned in close to Fang Xiu, whispering excitedly, "Xiu, they're talking about your big moment! They're going to give you an award. You're amazing!"

Fang Xiu didn't respond, instead preparing himself to head up and receive his recognition.

But then...

"This Specter event was unprecedented in its severity and the extent of the damage caused to Greenvine City. While the power of the Class-S Specter played a role, it also highlights the lack of emergency preparedness by the Investigation Bureau for city-wide incidents, and the failure to..."

Another half-hour passed...

"Fang Xiu, an investigator from Greenvine City's Investigation Bureau, and the key hero in this incident..."

"Xiu, it's finally your turn to get the award. This director can really talk—I almost fell asleep," Xiao Chuxia yawned, her voice heavy with boredom.

Fang Xiu's frown deepened. He wondered if the Director was intentionally droning on to lull Yan Changshou into a false sense of security, or if this was just his usual style—long-winded and tedious.

Just as Fang Xiu was about to stand and accept his award, the Director continued

"Fang Xiu, with his extraordinary ability to foresee the future, along with the qualities and determination expected of an investigator, risked his life with the safety of the people in his heart, saving Greenvine City from disaster..."

Fang Xiu's patience, already stretched thin, finally snapped. Right in the middle of the Director's passionate speech, he stood up and began walking directly toward the stage.