?Chapter 336:


    “I’ve heard whispers that Alonso’s fees are legendary, though.”


    Emmanuel’s eyes lit up with a rare glimmer of hope. “Lance, if there’s even the slightest chance that he can rescue us from this abyss, pay whatever he demands. Just bring him into our world.”


    Lance nodded sharply, already pulling his phone from his pocket, fingers dancing toward Alonso’s contact information.


    Alonso was a legend in the world of AI. Stories about him floated through the industry like folklore.


    Like Lance, Alonso had graduated from Ublento University—but a decade earlier.


    After graduation, Alonso furthered his studies in AI technology abroad. Upon returning from overseas, he established his own studio, taking on high-level projects and achieving remarkable results. As his reputation soared, so did his fees. Today, his studio was the priciest in the industry. Most couldn’t afford his services.


    Still, whenever a big project hit a dead end, Alonso was the one everyone called. He never let anyone down. In the field, people believed he could solve any problem.


    Alonso was one of the top talents—someone others only dreamed of meeting. But Lance had a rare connection. Thanks to their school ties and his family background, he had Alonso’s contact information. Even so, Lance rarely called. Alonso was always swamped, and Lance didn’t want to bother him.


    Today, Lance made the call. The line rang and rang. No answer. As the seconds passed, hope drained from the room. Then came the dead tone—call unanswered. Thest spark of hope faded.


    “Lance, maybe Alonso changed his number. Or… maybe he doesn’t want to take your call?” Emmanuel asked, concerned.


    Lance pressed his lips together, unsure how to respond. Yes, he had Alonso’s number, but they weren’t exactly close. Alonso’s studio was always booked. No one could say for sure if Alonso would agree to help. Meanwhile, Elliana leaned back, her chin resting on her hand as if she were enjoying the show.


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    Lance, already frustrated, couldn’t stand her presence. To him, it felt like she was mocking him. Unable to hold back, he snapped at her, “Can you stop being such an eyesore?”


    Elliana, unfazed, curled her lips into a faint smile. “You should be nicer to me. You might need my helpter.”


    Lance scoffed. “Need your help? For what? To design a jacket? Or sketch some portraits for my team? Don’t parade your basic skills here. This room’s full of real talent—no one’s pping for you.”


    Elliana’s smile widened. “Alright. Just don’te beggingter.”


    Lance shot her a re, thinking she was ridiculous. Just then, his phone rang. He looked down—and his eyes lit up. “It’s Alonso! He’s calling me back!”


    Everyone perked up instantly.


    “Hurry, answer it!” Emmanuel urged, as if a second’s dy would blow their chance.


    Lance picked up quickly. “Hello, Alonso!”


    Alonso’s calm voice came through. “Lance, what’s going on?”


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