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“Ah.” This certainly wasn’t the first time David was hearing that about Jacobson. It was always hard to know how true such rumors truly were, though. When it came to politicians, the ability to make friends was key, and when people thought you were nice, that task usually became easier.

It also made it easier to stab people in the back, perhaps even without them realizing it.

But Carlito’s assessment carried a bit of weight to it, David felt. Perhaps it wasn’t all nonsense, after all.

“You mention that last part as if it’s not even that important to you,” said David. “Surely, after the hell you have endured under Garvey, the general disposition of your new boss should be a higher priority to you.”

At that, Carlito sat back up in his chair and eyed David for a moment. “...Eh. At the end of the day, I’d still rather work for someone who can make a real difference in the world than someone who is just nice to me.”

Heh. Yeah. This kid was definitely going to become a big name around here, one day.

Carlito slumped back down again. “Of course, ideally I could have both...”

David took a sip of his iced tea. “As it so happens, I know someone on Jacobson’s team,” he said.

Carlito’s head popped up off the table, though he didn’t say anything.

“I could put in a good word for you, if you like,” said the prince.

The kid’s eyes widened, and he blinked at him. “Y-you could? I... but I...” Then his expression rediscovered its composure. “In exchange for what, exactly?”

Prince David gave him a flat smile. “Why would it need to be in exchange for anything?”

Carlito returned a look. “Because nothing in this world is free.”

“Well, now, that’s just not true. Why, just the other day I visited the grocery store over on Nara Street, and they were giving away free samples of these lovely little fudge cakes.”

Carlito still just looked at him.

“You’re a very jaded young man, you know that?”

“So I’ve been told.”

David smacked his lips and sipped from his drink another time. “That is something you’ll have to overcome, if you wish to make it much further in this business.”

“What do you mean?”

“Being jaded. Don’t get me wrong. It’s useful--and, in fact, necessary--to doubt people. To see through their lies or pick up on the subtext of what they might be saying. Sure. But the most important skill for a politician to have is the ability to make friends. And a lot of people will find that jaded disposition quite off-putting, if you don’t keep it close to your chest.”