The Outsider (Outsider #1) ✔️

Chapter 109 : Cartier Fruit Impact

The DyPM was an important guest. The Emperor could not let him go without inviting him for lunch. Julien, being the Crown Prince was called over to meet him, along with Dusk Hale.

The Emperor had included Dusk, to emphasise that she was an important part of the family, to strengthen the misinformation they had of her and also to let him have a heartburn of seeing the person who had cost his country so much money.

Willian knew that the information the DyPM had given him was wrong. Dusk's interest in Catherine was not that of a lover. But he would now keep a closer watch on them! The information of Luke Jones was also wrong. But it was now obvious that both stories were floating within social circles in his own empire before it reached the ears of his enemies.

Luke thought he was anonymous. But he was very much visible. He may have achieved a lot, but it did not mean that no one knew about him. He needed to warn the boys. For obvious reasons, Luke Jones could never become a Category Z protectee of the Imperial Security. In spite of the high risk, he would continue to be covered by that very small select team of commandoes who he had natured himself. Willian hoped it was enough.

Later, as they sat in the Lounge for coffee after Lunch, the DyPM approached Dusk Hale, who was standing by the window with a cup of coffee in her hand, looking out at the perfectly maintained gardens. Seeing the important foreign visitor, she felt a discomfort.

"Ms. Hale, I believe that you had a bad experience with your interactions a company that is from my nation, Carla Vacuxa GameTech Inc. Our Prime Minister is upset with the incident in which you were insulted by representatives of the company. Since everyone knows the company is from Thousand Nations, Our Prime Minister considers that its behaviour reflects badly on us as a Nation. The culture in our country does not allow someone to behave badly either on account of a person's gender, age, race or wealth.

"The way they have treated you is totally unacceptable, and they are facing action in our country. The President and Chairperson of the company are close friends of mine. When they heard I am coming to Regis, they have requested me to act as their Ambassador. They would like to offer a compromise. If you are willing to withdraw the complaint against the company, they are willing to pay a reasonable compensation for the wrong done to you by illegal use of the technology." He explained.

"On 1st Day, the week after next, at 10 am," He continued, "Their lawyers would like to meet you and Ms. Susco to discuss the terms of the settlement."

Dusk backed away nervously. She did not find the DyPM honest, straightforward character and his offer may have a trap for her. She shook her head to refuse but was not sure how to do so without offending someone who was obviously a State Guest. She looked at the Crown Prince, pleading for direction. That was of course noted by the visitor.

"I think a negotiated settlement would be a good idea, Deputy Prime Minister," Julien said. "I will also ask a representative of the Imperial Advocate General to represent Dusk and Susco. You understand, after all, both of them are young and need guidance."

Both Dusk and the DyPM heaved a sigh of relief. For the former, it meant someone from the Government will take care of the matter. For the later, dealing with an experienced diplomat like Crown Prince Julien was a much better option. Dealing with Dusk Hale was like walking among eggshells in a minefield. You had to step very gingerly so as not to crush the eggs and not to trigger the mines causing an explosion.

"Crown Prince Julien, since there is bad blood between a top Tech Entrepreneur like her and the biggest Tech Company in our country, which both sides, I hope want to put behind themselves, our Prime Minister wishes to invite Dusk Hale to the Capital of Thousand Nations for a week-long visit as State Guest. If you can send a delegation of Tech Business with her, we will also be arranging conferences with large Tech Corporations from our country and possibly some collaborations will come from it." the DyPM suggested.