Inside the National Banquet Hall, elegantly dressed guests mingled in a lively atmosphere.
Lorne still held a glass of champagne as he moved among nobles and politicians of every kind, exchanging drinks and pleasantries.
Some of these nobles are Beyonders too, but their levels are generally pretty low. Most are only Sequence 8 or Sequence 7... Maintaining his smile, Lorne discreetly sized up these important figures who usually stood high above everyone else.
"Viscount Scott, your performance today was exemplary..."
Just then, another politician with a beer belly and a face full of smiles approached to greet him. Lorne quickly gathered his thoughts, adopted a humble expression, and deftly went over to deal with him.
After finally sending the Member of Parliament away with a string of diplomatic platitudes, he noticed another truly important figure out of the corner of his eye, carrying a wineglass through the crowd and heading straight toward him.
It was the Kingdom's current prime minister, Aguesid Negan.
Dela's father...
All those partnerships and investments Dela arranged probably had the prime minister's secret approval and tacit consent behind them.
Lorne adjusted his bow tie and stepped forward with a smile to greet him.
Meanwhile, a short distance away on the other side of the room.
Hvin Rambis stood quietly beside a massive marble pillar with a glass of red wine, secretly observing the situation. For some reason, a crowd of people hoping to strike up a conversation always surrounded him. They provided excellent cover, allowing him to discreetly direct his gaze toward Lorne between exchanges.
"He clearly looks like a somewhat reserved lucky fellow who has only just risen to a new social class. But..."
"There's just something a little unusual about him."
As a Manipulator adept at peering into minds and toying with emotions, his