Fall

The art of gift-giving was also about attitude, and clearly would not change with the pace of technological development.

An Interstellar Cruise Ship was something Deputy Minister He definitely could not afford to buy, nor could he afford to maintain one.

After all, his public image was that of an official from the Commoner Faction. Naturally, he could not do anything inappropriate for his position.

But Deputy Minister He also had luxurious needs. He might not need such things personally, but when entertaining partners or looking after colleagues, he always needed some impressive big toys.

So there was no need to put on an act in front of List.

If you don't take it, how can I rest easy?

"Then I must thank Mr. List."

The two exchanged smiles, understanding everything without a word.

List's gift was not flattery, but a declaration of his stance.

Deputy Minister He's acceptance was not because he truly wanted those things, but because he was telling List that they were one of their own.

Otherwise, outsiders would not even have a way to give him gifts.

Deputy Minister He did not accept just any gift.

If you prayed at the wrong temple, you would not even have a channel for giving gifts.

After that small interlude, the atmosphere between them became exceptionally harmonious.

"Pegasus Group has been making moves everywhere lately. Most of its influence within the federal government is concentrated in the Education System."

Deputy Minister He gave List a detailed breakdown of Pegasus Group's upper-level connections. To an outsider, it was like trying to see flowers through fog.

Maple Leaf Mining knew a little about it, but not the specifics—especially not Pegasus Group's exact backers.

Only by knowing who the enemies were could they strike with greater precision.

List fell into thought.