The formal portion of the evening commenced with the heavy, calculated pageantry typical of the Ministry of Commerce. Chandelier lights dimmed slightly as the Minister of Commerce, Troy Husks, stepped up to the podium on the elevated dais. Feedback from the microphone buzzed briefly before his voice echoed over the eighty tables.
Husks smiled warmly, delivering a sweeping opening address that welcomed the country's legacy titans, prominent members of parliament, and the institutional directors anchoring Veyra's economy. He went down a pre-approved list, explicitly acknowledging the contributions of the legacy families, the Meridian Group, and the energy boards.
Yet, as the speech wrapped up, the names Aurelia Capitals and Golden Investments were completely omitted.
A subtle wave of glances shifted toward Table Nine. It was an intentional, public snub, and everyone in the room noticed it immediately.
