With the heir of the Windborne Family stepping forward, many of the families who had hoped to obtain precious potions and rare materials from Thoren were forced to retreat.
Most notably, the heiress and the heir of the two most powerful Awakener families in Suncrest City quickly realized what had just happened.
They had been outplayed.
While they had been carefully maintaining appearances, following etiquette, exchanging pleasantries, and waiting for the appropriate moment, Corven had already seized the initiative.
He had broken the unspoken rules.
And in doing so, he had taken the lead.
Though they tried to maintain their composure, the truth was clear. Their opportunity had slipped through their fingers.
Left with no better option, they gradually excused themselves and departed the estate, each one masking their disappointment behind polite smiles.
However, they all left with a valuable lesson.
Thoren did not care for social etiquette.
Flattery did not work on him.
