Shortly after, the door was pushed open a crack, and Lana Lowell rushed in, panting.
She had just changed into her dress, and the hem was still slightly wrinkled.
As soon as she entered, she didn't bother with pleasantries and headed straight for the tea table, grabbing the purple clay teapot. Without caring if the tea was scalding, she tilted her head back and gulped down several big mouthfuls, her throat moving.
Only after drinking several sips in one go did she stop, taking a long breath.
"I'm exhausted... I almost missed the opening."
She patted her chest, her tone still carrying a hint of lingering fear.
Now that the people were gathered, the previous topic about red lanterns was put to a halt and was no longer mentioned.
In the center of the hall, the lights gradually dimmed, and a spotlight shone on the center of the stage.
The host was already standing at the podium, dressed in a custom-tailored tailcoat.
In his hand, he held an ebony carved auction gavel.
