【Interstellar Contract Magician】Ruyuanke

Chapter 456 [Empire] Dinner

I couldn't help but wonder, if Nightingale had been the first person I fell in love with after crossing into this world, would everything have been different? Perhaps, things would have unfolded completely differently. Perhaps I wouldn't have felt so lost and lonely, my heart constantly filled with countless questions and emptiness. Perhaps, in his calmness and depth, I would have found an inexplicable peace of mind, facing the unspeakable past and future with him, instead of standing here in this strange city, trying to blend in, yet always feeling so alienated.

Nightingale's presence seemed to be the most profound attraction I'd felt since crossing over. His sharp yet calm demeanor always managed to draw me in, even when I least expected it. Perhaps, in another scenario, a single word or gesture from him would have completely swayed me, letting go of all my defenses and caution, approaching him, seeking to understand his true inner self.

But perhaps all this was just a fantasy. After all, the real Nightingale was always so elusive, always facing me with a cold indifference. His eyes held so many secrets, as if every eye contact was a test, as if he never truly wanted me to enter his world. His unapproachable aura made me feel that the closer I tried, the more out of reach I became.

If he truly was the one I fell in love with first, would everything become less complicated? Would I be able to easily blend into his world, spending those unknown years with him, without having to painstakingly decipher his every subtle expression, every silence? Perhaps, then, a nightingale like that would no longer seem so distant and unattainable, but someone I could hold in my hand, someone I could rely on.

But on second thought, I smiled and let go of these chaotic thoughts. A nightingale is a nightingale, always unfathomable. How could I change reality for the sake of my own fantasy? His ever-present coldness and indifference are his truest side. And perhaps I should be more aware that our relationship can't be changed by relying on this superficial affection alone.

However, perhaps it is precisely because he is inaccessible that he seems more attractive.

Maybe it was Shan Qi's sudden awakening of conscience, or maybe some hidden desire in his heart finally awakened. In any case, he actually took me to a dinner party where even interstellar journalists were not qualified to enter.

It was a feast of almost breathtaking opulence. In a vast domed hall beneath a starry sky, crystal chandeliers cast a galaxy of light, illuminating the gathering of dignitaries and celebrities. The surrounding walls were a pure silver-white, reflecting the stars outside through invisible screens. Each table was covered with exquisite tablecloths and laden with jewel-like food and a dazzling array of drinks. Elegant music drifted slowly through the air, each note seeming to gently ripple across the vast universe.

I stood at the doorway, stunned. Everything around me seemed so unfamiliar, like an intruder, a bystander who shouldn't be at this magnificent banquet. However, when I looked up at Shan Qi, his sharp eyes held an unexpected warmth. He didn't seem as cold as usual. Instead, he smiled softly and whispered to me, "Come on, you're my guest today."

This sentence was a bit gentle, but also carried a certain sense of authority, which made me involuntarily straighten my chest and walk into this world full of glitz and vanity.

The requirements for dresses for this dinner are extremely high. I've long heard that only the top designers can tailor a look just right for a guest. And today, I donned the couture suit that was custom-made just for me—a simple yet sophisticated black suit. The meticulous tailoring perfectly frames my figure, with sharp shoulders and a slightly slim fit at the hem, creating a sense of elegance and strength. Every detail reveals unparalleled craftsmanship, and every stitch and thread exudes luxury and taste.

My leather dress shoes gently tapped the ground beneath my feet. Their soft texture and comfortable design made me almost forget they were there, yet with each step, they brought with them a subtle yet undeniable aura of nobility. The sheen of the leather shone under the light, and the soles touched the ground with a light touch, as if every step I took left a deep mark on the world.

Looking at my reflection in the mirror, I felt a mixture of confidence and unfamiliarity. This outfit was undoubtedly a stark contrast to my usual casual, simple self. The me in the mirror was no longer the girl in simple clothes, but a "man" who could confidently enter this upper-class society. In that moment, I seemed to have unconsciously transformed my demeanor, as if this suit and shoes were more than just external decoration; they enveloped me in a whole new identity and aura.

However, despite this, I still felt a little uneasy. After all, this kind of occasion was so unfamiliar to me. Everyone around me seemed to be wearing an endless halo, radiant and brilliant, while I was still that little star in the dark corner, longing for contact but not knowing how to fit in.

Shan Qi didn't give me much time to think. He calmly chatted with the nobles, his tone still carrying that calm and authoritative air. I stood beside him, silently observing everything around me. Gradually, I felt less reserved. At one point, I even began to enjoy the feeling of being watched, the unique aura that emanated from me.

At that moment, I couldn't help but wonder, if I could find my own place in this world, and find my own way in this world of power and luxury, then would I be more comfortable and brave than I am now?

I stood in the crowd, feeling like a child imitating adults, trying to mimic the ease and grace of others, but feeling like I wasn't natural enough. Everyone around me was dressed to the nines and spoke with impeccable grace, but I, despite my fine suit, felt like an outsider, like I was wearing someone else's shell that didn't belong to me.

I picked up the wine glass and, imitating Shan Qi, gently swirled the red wine in it, casually glancing around, pretending to sip leisurely, as if I had also blended into this magnificent dinner. However, the wine in the glass trembled slightly at my fingertips, and each sway seemed to remind me: This is not the world I am familiar with.

My eyes fell on those in formal attire. They chatted and laughed cheerfully, their manner unhurried, each one of them exuding nobility and elegance. In comparison, every movement of mine seemed so clumsy, as if the suits were not only hiding my body, but also my inner anxiety.

I looked down at the glass in my hand. The color of the wine was like the crimson stars in the night sky, and the light filtered through the rim, casting subtle ripples. I took a deep breath and, imitating Shan Qi, took a gentle sip. The aroma of the wine instantly spread through my mouth, bringing with it a familiar warmth. The warmth of the alcohol relaxed me slightly, and the tension in my heart seemed to dissipate with each sip.

Yet, despite this, I couldn't shake the overwhelming feeling of unfamiliarity. No matter how I tried to feign familiarity, I knew I was still an outsider. The bottom of the wine glass reflected my own image, and as I gazed at the familiar yet unfamiliar "man" in the mirror, a complex mix of emotions welled up within me.

Perhaps, I will never be able to fully adapt to this feast. Perhaps every sip of wine and every movement of mine seem so out of place.

But whatever. At that moment, I also had a profound realization, a realization that was all mine.

Even though I don't belong in this world, it doesn't mean I can't find my own space in it.

I smiled slightly, put away those chaotic thoughts, and continued to stand beside Shan Qi, savoring the glass of wine. Perhaps the real meaning of this gorgeous banquet is not to blend in, but to learn to maintain oneself in it.

Just as I was lost in thought, the hustle and bustle around me seeming to recede, an elegant and capable woman approached. She wore a deep, dark blue dress, the hem of which brushed the ground gently. Her every gesture exuded an undeniable elegance. Her hairstyle was simple yet refined, and her eyes were sharp and penetrating, as if she could see through any disguise. With an elegant smile, she slowly approached me, gently raised her glass, and said softly, "Sir, tonight's dinner is truly unusual. Is this your first time attending this?"

Her voice was low and gentle, with a natural charm, as if every word she said could attract the attention of everyone around her. Her eyes swept across my face and lingered in my eyes, as if waiting for my response.

I froze for a moment, suddenly realizing I was completely captivated by her aura. Though I was in a completely unfamiliar environment, she had managed to instantly make me feel a sense of unease and challenge. She was clearly experienced, handling this situation with ease. While I feigned composure, my heart was still rife with emotions.

I swallowed the remaining wine, trying not to appear too nervous. Following Shan Qi's lead, I smiled and nodded gently. "Indeed, this is my first time attending a party like this. The atmosphere tonight is truly unique, just as you said."

As soon as I finished speaking, I realized my tone seemed to strike a strange chord with her elegant demeanor. Although every movement and every word seemed like imitation, I still tried not to sound awkward. To maintain the flow, I continued, "I wonder if you often come to places like this, ma'am? You seem very familiar with everything here."

She smiled softly, a playful glint in her eyes. "I do come here occasionally; after all, these occasions can sometimes be helpful for business development. What do you do, sir?"

Her conversation flowed naturally, with a relaxed cadence, as if we were long-lost friends. I relaxed a bit and replied softly, "I'm just a casual person, not someone who usually ventures into these kinds of business situations."

She didn't seem surprised by my answer. Instead, she looked more interested. "A random person is quite interesting. Perhaps that's what makes you different."

I nodded silently, a subtle stirring in my heart. While this rhythm of conversation wasn't familiar to me, I gradually discovered that I was actually enjoying this interaction with her. Her words exuded a calmness and confidence, and in this hypocritical and luxurious world, I had found a wonderful balance in conversation with her.

We exchanged pleasantries for a moment, her eyes seemingly scanning me. I, however, tried to maintain a calm demeanor, mimicking Shan Qi's, responding to her every word without impatience. Although a sense of nervousness still lingered, in this atmosphere, it felt as if my every move was being meticulously observed.

She finally chuckled and changed the subject gently: "It seems that tonight is really a challenge. I hope to see you again, sir."

I bowed slightly, feeling a strange sense of relief in my heart: "If I have the chance, I will never forget it."

She turned and left, her steps still as light as water, as if she had become one with this world, and I was still the adult child trying hard to imitate her.

After she left, I stood there.

Suddenly I realized that although my mood was still a little complicated, at least this time, I learned how to deal with this complicated social game and how to find a space of my own among so many eyes.

The music gradually grew more melodious, like a gentle breeze sweeping through the entire hall. As the music began, the lights flickered, and the atmosphere subtly shifted in an instant. The chatter faded, replaced by a hushed anticipation. The evening seemed to have entered a new phase, and the air was filled with an indescribable tension and excitement.

In the center of the dance floor, a dazzling light suddenly shone onto the glittering golden stage. Dancers, clad in dazzling gowns, twirled gracefully like flowing stars. The music intensified, instantly igniting the atmosphere of the entire dinner. Some in the crowd began to softly clap and sway their bodies to the rhythm, as if all their anxiety and repression had been released.

I stood aside, eyes narrowed slightly, watching the dancers dance gracefully to the rhythm of the music. Every movement was filled with grace and power, every turn seemed to carry the brilliance of the stars. My gaze followed them unconsciously, and the world around me seemed to blur. Only the people on the stage, like angels descended from heaven, pushed the evening to another climax.

Yet, even as the atmosphere grew increasingly lively, I stood aside, feeling a sense of loneliness that seemed out of place in this grand spectacle. The laughter and joy of the crowd created a sense of distance between me and them. I wondered if I could fully fit into this world. After all, in this ocean of splendor and vanity, I felt like a lost boat, drifting with the current, unable to find a true sense of belonging.

Suddenly, Shan Qi appeared in my sight. He walked calmly through the crowd, his expression remaining calm, seemingly oblivious to everything around him. Seeing me, he nodded slightly, a rare gentleness in his eyes. He said nothing much, as if silently taking in all the changes.

"Do you like this kind of music?" he asked suddenly, his voice low and clear.

I looked up at him and nodded. Although I was still hesitant inside, I still replied, "Not bad, quite rhythmic."

He smiled slightly, his gaze fixed on the dancers on the dance floor. "These dancers are in perfect harmony with the music. Perhaps in their world, everything is in perfect harmony. But in our world, this is often not the case."

I looked at him, feeling a strange emotion. Indeed, this world is full of uncertainty and complex rules. We can't blend into it as easily as those dancers, seeking that perfect harmony with the world.

"Aren't you going to dance?" he asked suddenly, with a hint of provocation in his eyes, yet gentle.

I was stunned for a moment, then shook my head: "I'm not very good at it."

He didn't force her, but just smiled gently: "It's up to you, tonight is your dinner, just do what you like."

I nodded, though hesitantly, the confusion and uneasiness in my heart seemed to be somewhat relieved by his words. I looked down at the wine glass in my hand, silent for a moment, and finally raised my head again, my eyes sweeping across the lights and the crowd on the dance floor. For some reason, I felt a faint sense of relief.

Yes, all of this may not belong to me, but I can still find my own rhythm under this vast starry sky.