Inside VIP room number 1.
Aurelius was visibly seething, his ego bruised. "Berto Valdez? From the Valdez family?"
He swiveled towards the veteran man, agitation clear in his tone. "They're weaker than us, aren't they? We should just strike at them."
Ranx exhaled a weary sigh. "If that's what you want, you'll need to discuss it with your grandfather. I'm only here to ensure the item is secured and safely transported back; I won't meddle in other matters, not even if it costs you your life. Remember what's truly important here."
He paused, then added sternly, "Also, make sure you're using your own money for these bids. If you even think about touching the fund we've allocated for our objectives here, I'll personally report it."
Aurelius, realizing his own limitations – particularly concerning his financial resources – reluctantly backed down from his aggressive stance.