Chapter 98

• Varen was more than eager to attend the celebration ball with me. The moment I mentioned it, he offered to introduce me to some of his supporters who would be there. It only solidified my belief that choosing him as my so-called partner would benefit us both. He had spent most of his thirty years living as an outcast, lingering in the shadows of the Palace that should have been his home. His wiry frame and lack of brawn left him vulnerable to the stronger semi-nobles and mixed-breed servants who dominated the palace. Mother Nature had denied him the physical strength to demand respect—but she had compensated him with a mind like no other.
• Varen was a genius. He could multiply large numbers faster than most could blink and devoured advanced quantum physics as though it were light bedtime reading. Vampires who had lost their titles but still held centuries-old fortunes revered him for his sharp financial advice and shrewd project reviews. Yet despite their respect, none dared to show it openly—Varen’s inability to defend himself left him isolated. I understood him, though. I wanted to be his strength, and he knew my presence would attract more allies, especially with the Royal Army at my back.
• “You’ve made quite the impression in just one day. Selene must be furious,” he chuckled.