Yang Yanlei hadn't arrived yet. He was notorious for arriving precisely on time, making others wait for him.

The Secretary-General approached, nudging aside a visibly distressed staff member, and warmly said to Gu Zuo, "General Gu, representing the military here is only natural. However, there's always been a designated seat for the military representative. Please, follow me."

"There's no need. I'm here with an important mission today. Speaking from the stage will be clearer."

The Secretary-General paused, taken aback. His impression of Gu Zuo had always been of a mild-mannered gentleman, unlike the fiery temperament of Marshal Shao. But today's behavior suggested otherwise.

It seemed Gu Zuo coveted the Marshal's position, a desire now blatantly evident. Having confidence truly made a difference. But what would happen if this reached Marshal Shao's ears?

"Some people should realize their limits and not overreach," Yang Jinye remarked sarcastically, undeterred by the powerful Gu family.

Gu Zuo, his expression unchanging, replied gently, "Ah, Young Master Yang, I didn't notice you seated so far back. My apologies."

"No worries. I'm just an ordinary man. Being able to attend this meeting is an honor. Any seat will do. The ones on stage are too conspicuous for my liking."

A nearby minister chuckled, playing peacemaker. "Young men love to jest. Since General Gu represents the military, it's fitting for him to sit up there. A vacant seat is still vacant, after all."

As Yang Yanlei entered, he warmly grasped Gu Zuo's arm, "Since Marshal Shao isn't here, why not join me on stage as the military's representative, General Gu? I have several matters to discuss with the military, and this will be convenient."

With his invitation, the Secretary-General didn't intervene. The others, even if discontented, wouldn't show it, especially in the absence of the key figures.

Yang Jinye quieted down after receiving a stern look from his father. Speaking out now would be asking for trouble.

As the two ascended the stage together, the attendees' minds raced with speculation. Did this signify that Yang Yanlei had sided with the Gu family? With power struggles in the military and multiple factions within the government, many began to waver.

Applause sounded from the entrance, followed by the distinct sound of military boots. Turning, everyone saw a young man in a military uniform, his rank evident. Surprisingly, this young man was the military's commander.

A long saber hung from his waist, recognized by many as Marshal Shao's personal blade, Yong'an. Ironically, many of them had reached their current positions without ever seeing Marshal Shao's true face. Few in Dawn City knew his real identity.

Yang Jinye couldn't take his eyes off Shao Qi from the moment he entered. This man was dazzling. Wherever he went, he became the focal point. Yang Jinye knew from their first meeting five years ago that Shao Qi would be the light of his life.

"Marshal Shao!" Yang Jinye was the first to rise and greet Shao Qi. Others followed suit. Regardless of Gu Zuo's previous spotlight, the main figure had arrived, and Gu Zuo had to step down. The tables had turned rather quickly.

Many wondered if Marshal Shao's appearance was intentional. Why hadn't he shown up in previous years but chose this year?

And now revealing his true identity, was he preparing to confront the Gu family openly?

Chapter 189: Lunch

Standing on the stage, Shao Qi looked at Gu Zuo, noting that he hadn't changed much. He admired Gu's composure, even when faced with public embarrassment.

Pointing to his table, Shao Qi noted that Gu Zuo was just about to sit. If he had entered 30 seconds later, once Gu Zuo had settled, the impact would have been greater.

A distinct tapping noise indicated everyone understood Shao Qi's intent. They waited to see how Gu Zuo would respond. Would there be a confrontation? The meeting room had never witnessed a brawl. Perhaps these two would be the first.

Soldiers are known for their fiery passion and violence; a disagreement often leads to fists flying.

Gu Zhuo picked up the nameplate from the table and glanced at it, chuckling, "Ah, Marshal Shao, hiding behind a pseudonym? Oh, I forgot. Not only do you conceal your name, but you also hide your face. Afraid of making too many enemies and getting ambushed? Even ancient royalties weren't as secretive as you."

He walked around the table and gestured invitingly, "Since the main character is here, I obviously can't take this seat. But..." He leaned into Shao Qi and whispered just loud enough for both to hear, "Next year, this seat will be mine."

Shao Qi stepped back, gently pushing him away and dusted off his chest, "Keep your distance when talking. I'm a married man, and seeing your face makes it hard for me to keep my food down."

He walked over and sat down, back straight. He took off his saber and tossed it onto the conference table. The loud clank caused feedback in the microphones, making the leaders who had been watching the scene bow their heads.

This is Marshal Shao, after all. His years of prestige aren't something the young Gu Zhuo can compare to.

"Let's begin." Shao Qi nodded at the secretary beside him, then scanned the area. Dawn City has the largest population among all bases, over five million, divided into four zones. The central zone is the stronghold of these political officials, where daily directives can influence the nation, even the world.

The second zone is the affluent district. Only the wealthy reside here, for they must meet a certain tax threshold annually to qualify. Those who fail to meet it are evicted, which always results in public humiliation.