CHAPTER FIFTY FOUR – THE INNER SANCTUM

He took her arm, guiding her into the room. "Allow me to make some introductions." As Karl led her through the crowd, Cassie felt the weight of curious stares. She was clearly an outsider here, and she knew that every word, every gesture would be scrutinized. "Senator Hartley," Karl said, approaching the silver-haired man Cassie recognized from before. "You remember Cassie, of course." The senator's eyes gleamed with interest. "Indeed I do. The girl with the sharp observations. How are you finding our little gathering, my dear?" Cassie chose her words carefully. "It's... enlightening, Senator. There's clearly much more to learn about this world." The senator chuckled. "Oh, you have no idea. Karl, you've found quite the protégé here." As they moved on, Karl leaned in close, his breath warm on her ear. "You're doing well. Remember, in this room, every word is a move in a larger game. Watch, listen, and learn." Throughout the evening, Cassie found herself engaged in conversations t