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Chapter 85 - chapter 82 : The gala

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and dedicated citizens, it is with the utmost sense of honor and pride that I extend to each and every one of you a heartfelt welcome to the twentieth commemoration of the state security award night. This evening is an occasion of great significance, as we gather to pay tribute to those remarkable individuals who have displayed extraordinary levels of patriotism, unfaltering professionalism, and an unparalleled skill set in safeguarding the precious lives and valuable properties of our fellow countrymen," proclaimed the Chief of state security with a sense of deep reverence and admiration.

"It is without a shadow of a doubt that the outstanding efforts of our security agents, assembled here tonight, have played a pivotal role in positioning our beloved nation as one of the safest havens on the entire planet. Yet, let us not overlook the fact that the civilians amongst us, individuals who have chosen to join us in celebrating and honoring their loved ones or esteemed associates, have, in their own unique ways, made monumental contributions toward the protection and preservation of the lives of their fellow citizens. Their unwavering support and steadfast dedication have, in essence, been integral components of our collective mission to uphold and ensure the security of our beloved homeland."

"I stand before you tonight to convey a sentiment that resonates deeply within my heart—that every soul present at this esteemed gathering is nothing short of a hero in service to our great nation. This distinction, this profound embodiment of selfless commitment, far transcends the significance of any tangible award or recognition. It is a testament to the unwavering spirit of unity and dedication that courses through the veins of our society. Therefore, with a heart full of gratitude and admiration, I urge us to proceed without delay to the main segment of this momentous occasion," concluded the Chief of state security, prompting a thunderous wave of applause and reverent ovation that swept across the audience.

"Your words have unfailingly imparted a sense of inspiration and deep reflection, Sir. I express my heartfelt gratitude to you. And now, without further ado, let us collectively extend our warmest welcome to Director Fernanda Armando as she graces the platform, as we embark upon the recognition of tonight's inaugural award recipient within the Best Security Agency category," echoed the MC, as Director Fernanda made her way to the platform, exuding an aura of dignified grace and undeniably commanding authority.

Amidst the hushed anticipation that permeated the grand hall, the Director's eyes, aglow with pride and a gracious countenance, gazed up at the expectant faces.

"The recipient of the best agency award is none other than..." Her voice bore an elegant resonance that filled the space, "Apex Security agency," she announced with a clarity that allowed her proclamation to resonate throughout the hall.

An exuberant eruption of cheers cascaded through the air, enveloping the chamber with an electrifying energy. The audience, with unanimous fervor, celebrated the well-deserved recognition, deeming it a befitting tribute to an agency that had charted an exceptional course over the year.

For the past three years, the NDI had effortlessly claimed supremacy in this very category. However, the dawn of this night ushered in a new era, for a non-government-affiliated agency now reigned supreme—a momentous occasion worthy of the profound cheer that echoed through the hall.

With an elegant stride that exuded both confidence and humility, Anderson made his way to the podium, embodying a blend of grace and authority as he accepted the acclaimed honor on behalf of Apex Security Agency.

"We are profoundly grateful for this esteemed recognition, though the truth remains—we are merely doing the sacred duty entrusted to us," he expressed, a gentle chuckle eliciting a harmonious response of laughter from the captivated audience.

"Allow me to acknowledge my superior, Damien Voltorie the president of Apex Conglomerate, whose astute leadership has navigated Apex Security to its current exalted standing. His guidance, always echoing the imperative of 'improve this, acquire this, establish this—all while ensuring the safety of all humans and others alike ' has been our guiding light," Anderson intoned with a glint in his eye, provoking yet another wave of warmth-laden laughter that pervaded the air, an acknowledgment understood not only by the human attendees, but also by the non-human presence that graced the gathering.

"And now, the subsequent category to be honored is the best Director award. Let us extend a most sincere welcome to Mr. Derek De Marco, who will be conferring this distinguished accolade," the MC announced, igniting a lively hum of anticipation within the hall as Derek, exuding an air of confident charm, made his grand entrance to the podium.

Among the jubilant throng, it was the women who adorned the gala who welcomed him with the most fervor, captivated by his undeniable charm, unyielding poise, and an aura suffused with refined sophistication, much like the distinguished gentleman, Anderson, who had been acknowledged just moments before. Their collective presence added an unmistakable allure to the already resplendent affair.

With a quiet sense of elegance, Derek received the dainty envelope into his possession and cast a thoughtful gaze upon the card nestled within, his countenance a masterful disguise of any revealing emotion. As his eyes ascended once more to meet the expectant assembly, he spoke with a refined composure,

"In the category of best Director, it is with great pleasure that I announce that the distinguished recipient of this esteemed award is none other than Director Shaw of the National Division of Intelligence," his words delivered with a graceful simplicity that underscored the magnitude of the honor.

Director Shaw glided toward the podium, as he accepted the tribute bestowed upon him. "I find myself with few words beyond a profound appreciation for the organizers and, of course, my devoted agents. It is their unwavering dedication that truly elevates me, and for that, I extend my deepest thanks to my esteemed agents," he expressed, eliciting a round of heartfelt applause from the esteemed guests gathered in attendance, their ovation echoing through the grand hall.

"Without further ado, we move to the next pivotal recognition of the evening—the revered accolade for the best tactical team in our dear country. To present this prestigious honor, I implore you to extend a warm welcome to our distinguished guest, Madame Veronica Benneth," announced the MC, inciting a spirited eruption of cheers and applause from the captivated audience.

Madame Veronica, exuding a regal aura and an air of refined elegance, made her way with graceful assurance to the platform where she, like her counterparts, received an envelope containing the coveted name of the imminent recipient of the aforementioned category.

"In the spotlight, just as our past honoree Director Fernanda exemplified, I would be remiss not to savor a moment of anticipation," Madame Veronica teased, her poised demeanor hinting at the imminent revelation yet to come, before casting a deliberate glance down at the card held in her hand. With a measured pause, she declared, "The winner of the best tactical team in the country is none other than the Special Ops team of the National Division of Intelligence," concluding the eagerly awaited unveiling with a sense of regal grace.

"Yes!!!" A spirited exclamation burst forth from Oliver, one of Lauren's devoted teammates, punctuating the air with palpable excitement. Amused by the display of jubilation, Lauren couldn't help but emit a gentle chuckle, her eyes dancing with a quiet sense of contentment as she witnessed the exuberance of her fellow team member.

Having previously relinquished their hopes of clinching the best team accolade after falling short in the pursuit of the best agency award, Lauren and her colleagues were taken aback by the surprising turn of events. The very notion that their coveted victory hinged upon securing the best agency title made the triumph all the more unexpected.