During this meeting, Su Xiaotian's translation was exceptionally accurate.
She used the most precise translations for potentially problematic words, rendering their meanings flawlessly. Furthermore, she identified two instances where the other party's word choices were inaccurate and subtly cautioned Minister Duan and Wei Junwu three times to avoid pitfalls.
Those sent were all highly intelligent. Upon sensing the issues, Minister Duan and Wei Junwu listened to Su Xiaotian's translations with great attention, even noting the nuances in her tone. Indeed, by paying heed to Su Xiaotian's subtle cues during her translation, they were able to sidestep the traps laid by the other side.
Ultimately, the meeting achieved the expected results, even surpassing Minister Duan and Wei Junwu's initial projections. Their mission from above was to secure cooperation, and while some concessions were permissible, Su Xiaotian's caution and intelligence made their negotiations smoother than anticipated. Moreover, they managed to secure the best possible interests, which greatly satisfied both men. They could finally submit a satisfactory report.
However, despite this success, they remained deeply concerned about the upcoming fashion exhibition. On the way back, aside from praising Su Xiaotian, they were both quite subdued.
Su Xiaotian humbly accepted the praise from her two superiors, stating it was simply her duty. The two leaders were very impressed by the young girl's intelligence, quick wit, and modesty, and the three of them enjoyed a harmonious journey.
Yet, this pleasant atmosphere vanished entirely upon their return to the hotel. The reason, naturally, was Minister Duan and Wei Junwu seeing the newspaper report. They were both aware of this newspaper; it was the flagship publication of the largest local newspaper agency, with a vast readership.
"Su Xiaotian, how did you end up in the newspaper?" Minister Duan asked, his voice cold as he held the paper. Minister Duan wasn't entirely clear on the newspaper's content, as his foreign language skills were limited. However, he could clearly see from the newspaper that the person depicted was Su Xiaotian. Just by looking at the photograph, he could guess that this incident was related to the previous day's robbery. Su Xiaotian's actions had placed her in a dangerous situation. Recalling Su Xiaotian's position during yesterday's events, Minister Duan felt a profound sense of dread. He couldn't bear to imagine what would have happened if something had gone wrong.
"Minister Duan, I don't know. There was a reporter at the scene yesterday, and they were taking photos in such a dangerous situation..." The reporter's audacity was truly remarkable. Weren't they afraid of being discovered by the robbers while taking pictures? But this was not the time to dwell on such questions. The most important thing now was how to discreetly complete the remaining days in L Country. No, the most crucial matter was how to prevent Minister Duan from getting angry.
"You still have the nerve to talk? Do you know what Director Du of your Translation Department told me before this delegation trip? And Minister Chang also repeatedly instructed me to ensure your safety at all costs!" The implications of Minister Chang's words made Minister Duan feel somewhat exasperated. Minister Chang's words almost explicitly stated that while his own safety as the Deputy Minister of Commerce was secondary, Su Xiaotian's safety was paramount. He hadn't understood why the leaders placed such importance on Su Xiaotian before, but now he knew. This young girl was a treasure. However, no matter how precious, one couldn't put oneself in danger. It seemed his reprimand yesterday had been too lenient. Should he continue to criticize this young girl today? But looking at the delicate young woman, what if she cried if he criticized her too harshly? He also had a daughter, slightly older than Su Xiaotian, and she would cry if criticized severely. Therefore, Minister Duan was somewhat intimidated by young women. Ultimately, Minister Duan decided not to criticize her too harshly, lest the young girl cry and be inconsolable!
"From today onwards, you are not allowed to act alone. Wherever you go, you must be accompanied." Although there were no security personnel officially accompanying this trip, there were actually two security personnel safeguarding the visiting delegation. Minister Duan decided to assign one of them to specifically protect Su Xiaotian. Even with one person dedicated to her protection, Minister Duan still worried about Su Xiaotian encountering danger. However, with only two security personnel, there was little else he could do!
"Actually, it's not necessary, Minister Duan." Su Xiaotian thought that if she were under strict surveillance, it would feel like losing her freedom.
"This is not up for discussion!" Minister Duan was truly exasperated by this daring young woman.
"I've already made changes? Minister Duan, if you didn't know me quite well, looking at my attire today, wouldn't you say it's very different from yesterday?" Su Xiaotian quickly said. She didn't want to cause trouble for her superiors. The two security personnel were not meant to protect her; the entire team relied on these two security personnel. Su Dan Novel Network. Moreover, Su Xiaotian had confidence in herself. She had been able to intervene and apprehend the robbers in that situation, and she had some faith in her ability to protect herself. Yesterday's incident was merely a moment of good intention. In that situation, she felt compelled to act to save people; if she hadn't, and someone had been injured or even killed, Su Xiaotian feared she wouldn't be able to accept it.
Wei Junwu, prompted by Su Xiaotian's words, indeed took a serious look at her. When he saw Su Xiaotian that morning, he had felt she was somehow different. Now, with Su Xiaotian's reminder, he finally understood. He felt that Su Xiaotian's appearance today was indeed vastly different from yesterday. This wasn't simply a matter of changing clothes. Her entire demeanor had changed, indicating she had put considerable effort into disguising herself. The young girl knew the gravity of the situation and was very smart; being able to devise a way to disguise herself as another person in such a short time was a skill in itself!
"Minister Duan, look, with this disguise, the young girl really doesn't look the same." Minister Duan glared at Wei Junwu with disappointment. Wei Junwu smiled and dared not speak further. Minister Duan's anger wasn't directed at Su Xiaotian but stemmed from his concern. It was understandable for Minister Duan to be stern with the young girl for being too bold.
"As I said, from today onwards, you are not allowed to go out alone!" As expected, Minister Duan's words remained firm and cold. Although Su Xiaotian felt this was a bit excessive, she had no choice but to reluctantly agree.
"Minister Duan, I have some nice fabrics here. Would you like to take a look?"