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And perhaps it was Hector's turn to speak up, but the strangeness of this entire encounter was beginning to give him pause, so he decided to hold off a bit longer and see how this guy reacted.

The senator did not seem phased. "It's my understanding that you wished to see me," he said.

"...We'd like access to Livingston Grand Castle so that we can visit our prince." There were other questions to ask, too, of course, but that felt like a decent place to start.

Jacobson tilted his head. "Interesting. And yet... you have already taken quite the gamble by trespassing here at the Basilica, no? So why not simply go trespass at Livingston, instead? Would that not have been quicker?"

A pretty good question, Hector had to admit. "Because I spoke to Prince David on the phone, and he said to look for you here in the Cathedral District."

"Prince David... Ah. And you, the Lord Darksteel of Atreya." Jacobson paused for a chuckle. "I had not even made that connection. How odd." He seemed to sense that his audience was confused, so he motioned with hands and shook his head apologetically. "Forgive me. I have only recently met Prince David, though he did leave quite the memorable impression on me. And you, sir--I have only recently begun hearing about. But again, I have been left quite impressed. It had not yet crossed my mind that you two were linked, but of course you would be. Atreya is quite the interesting little kingdom, it would seem."

"...We'll take that as a compliment," said Hector.

"As well you should," said the senator. "Your part of the continent is oft overlooked, as I'm sure you know, but in my estimation, that is no bad thing. We should all be so blessed to live in such a peaceful land as that. I hope you take great pride in your country, because it is doubtless a very special place."

'This guy's a politician alright,' remarked Garovel privately.

Hector elected to remain silent, though did offer the man a nod, at least.

After a beat, the senator took a couple steps to the side and touched his chin before glancing at the small party of onlookers again. "...So you were told to come to me for assistance by your prince. In helping you obtain entry into Livingston. I see. And from what I understand, you are not affiliated with the Vanguard, yes?"